EAC's Moment in the Sun: A CHAN Tournament of Triumphs and Tense Waits

As the 2024 African Nations Championship enters its knockout phase, this article celebrates the mixed fortunes of East African Community nations. From Kenya and Tanzania's dominant group stage runs to Uganda and Sudan's tense qualification bids, the tournament has been a testament to CECAFA's growing football prowess and the passion of its home crowds.

Brenda Ochieng'
August 18, 2025

Championship "CHAN” 2024 Trophy (Google Search)

The 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) has been a riveting showcase of African football talent, and for the East African Community (EAC), it has been a tournament of both resounding success and nail-biting anticipation. With the group stages now concluded, the performances of co-hosts Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, alongside fellow CECAFA member Sudan, have painted a vivid picture of a region on the rise, proving their mettle against the continent's best.
For Kenya and Tanzania, the journey to the knockout stages was nothing short of emphatic. Both nations topped their respective groups, a remarkable feat achieved in front of their passionate home crowds. Kenya's Harambee Stars, competing in Group A, secured an impressive 10 points with three wins and a draw. Their campaign included a crucial 1-0 victory over football powerhouse Morocco, a testament to their solid defensive organization and clinical finishing. Similarly, Tanzania’s Taifa Stars dominated Group B, also accumulating 10 points. Their successful run was highlighted by a convincing 2-0 win over Burkina Faso in the tournament's opening match, which set the tone for their successful group stage.

While Kenya and Tanzania celebrated their seamless progression, the journey for Uganda and Sudan was filled with more drama. Uganda, the third co-host, had a more dramatic path to the knockout stages. After an opening loss, the Cranes rallied with two consecutive wins. Their fate, however, hinged on the outcome of a crucial final match against South Africa, which, along with the other group match between Algeria and Niger, would decide their final standings. This tense scenario perfectly captured the high-stakes nature of tournament football.
Meanwhile, Sudan, the fourth EAC representative, also navigated a challenging Group D. The highlight of their group stage campaign was a stunning 4-0 demolition of Nigeria, a result that sent shockwaves through the tournament. Sudan entered their final group encounter against Senegal in a strong position, with their ticket to the knockout phase still to be decided. The team's performance has been a source of immense pride, showcasing their potential to compete with the continent’s elite.
The experience of co-hosting and competing at this level will be invaluable for the development of the domestic leagues and players of Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. It provides a platform for homegrown talent to gain international exposure, which in turn elevates the quality of their national teams and the local football scene. The roar of the home crowds, the strategic victories, and the hard-fought draws all contribute to a narrative of growth and ambition within the EAC's footballing fraternity.

About the Author

Brenda Ochieng'

Brenda Ochieng'

Brenda Ochieng' is a passionate storyteller and film enthusiast. With a background in film and video production and she brings a unique blend of creativity and technical expertise to her work. As a dedicated blogger, Brenda loves sharing insights on production techniques, blogging, and the art of storytelling. She is also a skilled editor and communicator, bringing a fresh perspective to her writing. Join Brenda as she delves into the captivating world of entertainment and news, sharing her knowledge and passion with you.

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