CHAN 2024: Host Uganda Seeks Good Start as Guinea Faces Familiar Foes Niger in Group C Opener
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Uganda Cranes begin their CHAN 2024 campaign today with a high‑stakes opener against Algeria in Kampala.
CHAN 2024 Group Stage Kicks Off Today in Uganda
The TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 officially begins on 4 August 2025, with host nations Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania welcoming fans and teams across East Africa. This edition marks a historic return of CHAN to the region, running until 30 August.
Historic Opening Against Algeria
In the opening Group C match in Kampala, Uganda’s Cranes face off against Algeria at 8:00 PM local time at the Nelson Mandela Stadium. Uganda is hoping to overturn a disappointing history, having never advanced past the group stage in six previous CHAN appearances.
Busy Day at Mandela Stadium
Earlier on the same day, Niger play Guinea at 5:00 PM local time at the same venue, opening Group C action. All the group matches for Uganda including subsequent games against Guinea (8 August), Niger (11 August) and South Africa (18 August) will be played at Mandela Stadium in Kampala.
Squads and Preparation
Uganda named a 25-man squad led by captain Allan Okello, featuring home-based talents only, as per CHAN eligibility rules. Core players like Ivan Ahimbisibwe highlighted the team’s focus and readiness, following intense training and warm‑up matches against Tanzania and Senegal.
Tournament Format & Stakes
This eighth edition brings together 19 national teams, divided into four groups. Group C, considered one of the most competitive, features Uganda, Algeria, Niger, Guinea, and South Africa. The group stage will run until 19 August, followed by knockout rounds culminating in the final in Nairobi on 30 August.
Host Nation Ambitions
Uganda is under pressure to break its CHAN group-stage curse on home soil. Coach Morley Byekwaso says his team will lean on home support as motivation. Ugandan officials and fans alike are optimistic about using the home advantage to go further than ever before.
Regional Spotlight & Broadcast
CHAN 2025 marks the first time the tournament is co-hosted by three countries, under the theme “Pamoja” (Together). African football fans can watch matches live on major broadcasters including beIN SPORTS, Canal+, and local TV stations.
What to Expect Today
All eyes will be on Kampala as both opening Group C matches tip off today. With a strong home advantage and a squad full of promising domestic talent, Uganda aims to make history. CHAN’s unique format celebrating local players adds added excitement and national pride.
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