The 2024 TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN), PAMOJA, co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, enters its second day with continental heavyweights Morocco and debutant co-host Kenya headlining the action.
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Morocco Launches Third Title Bid Against Angola
Defending champions Morocco, the only nation to have successfully defended the CHAN title (2018, 2020), begin their quest for a historic third crown today against Angola at Nairobi’s Nyayo National Stadium. Kick-off is scheduled for 16:00 local time (13:00 GMT).
Head coach Tarik Sektioui stressed the importance of a strong start:
“We respect Angola, but our focus is to set the tone early. Winning the opening match is crucial for our confidence and title ambitions.”
Team captain Mohamed Rabie Hrimat added:
“We have experience and unity. Our goal is to make history with a third title, and we’re ready to fight for it.”
Angola, runners-up in 2011 and recent COSAFA champions, will be no pushovers despite missing several key players. Coach Pedro Gonçalves remained upbeat:
“We’ve prepared well despite challenges. Morocco is strong, but we are here to compete and prove ourselves.”
Kenya Makes Historic CHAN Debut Against DR Congo
Co-host Kenya will make its long-awaited CHAN debut against two-time champions DR Congo at Nairobi’s Nyayo National Stadium later today. Kick-off is at 19:00 local time (16:00 GMT).
Head coach Benni McCarthy expressed pride and determination ahead of the match:
“This is a dream moment for Kenya. We want to inspire our fans and show that we can challenge the best in Africa.”
Kenya aims to become only the second host nation to win the CHAN title on home soil after Morocco’s 2018 triumph.
DR Congo, the tournament’s most experienced side with seven appearances and two titles (2009, 2016), seek redemption after a winless 2022 campaign. Captain Chancel Mbemba said:
“We respect Kenya’s passion as hosts, but we came here to reclaim our glory. Starting strong is non-negotiable for us.”
Madagascar, Mauritania Eye Early Advantage in Group B Showdown
Madagascar and Mauritania will clash on Sunday evening at 19:00 (local time) in Dar es Salaam in a crucial Group B match of the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024.
Madagascar, bronze medalists in 2022, are looking to build on their historic run under coach Romuald Rakotondrabe. Captain Andriamirado Aro Hasina “Dax” says the team is focused on finishing in the top two to reach the quarter-finals.
Mauritania, led by Spanish coach Aritz López Garai, return to CHAN aiming to surpass their second-round finish in the last edition. Veteran skipper Moulaye Ahmed Bessam stressed the team’s determination to “win and honour the country.”
With five teams in Group B, a winning start is crucial for both sides. The match, set for Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium, promises a tight, high-intensity battle as both teams push for early momentum in the tournament.
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