The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially announced the groupings for the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN), with Nigeria’s Home-Based Super Eagles placed in Group D alongside Senegal, Congo, and Sudan.
The draw ceremony took place on January 15, 2025, at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre in Nairobi, Kenya. This year’s CHAN is notable for being co-hosted by three East African nations: Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, marking the first time the tournament will span multiple countries.
Group D Overview:
- Nigeria: The Home-Based Super Eagles are eager to improve upon their previous performances, including a runner-up finish in 2018. The team is composed exclusively of players active in Nigeria’s domestic leagues, showcasing the nation’s local talent.
- Senegal: As the defending champions, Senegal presents a formidable challenge. Their squad’s cohesion and tactical discipline were key factors in their previous CHAN success.
- Congo: With a history of strong performances in continental tournaments, Congo’s team is known for its physicality and resilience on the field.
- Sudan: A consistent participant in CHAN, Sudan’s squad combines experience with emerging talent, making them a competitive force in the group.
The 2025 CHAN tournament is scheduled for August, with specific match dates and venues to be announced by CAF in the coming months. The competition features 19 teams, with 17 already confirmed. Two additional spots will be determined through a special qualifying round, with teams such as Sierra Leone, Comoros, South Africa, Egypt, and Algeria vying for inclusion.
Tournament Groups:
- Group A: Kenya (hosts), Morocco, Angola, DR Congo, Zambia
- Group B: Tanzania (hosts), Madagascar, Mauritania, Burkina Faso, Central African Republic
- Group C: Uganda (hosts), Niger, Guinea, Wild Card 1, Wild Card 2
- Group D: Senegal, Congo, Sudan, Nigeria
The African Nations Championship, established in 2009, is a biennial tournament organized by CAF, featuring teams composed exclusively of players active in their respective national leagues. This format aims to promote and develop local talent across the continent.
As the tournament approaches, the Home-Based Super Eagles are expected to commence intensive preparations to ensure a strong performance. The Nigerian football community remains optimistic about the team’s prospects and looks forward to a successful campaign in East Africa.