CHAN 2024: What You Need to Know

Ready for the biggest home‑based football showdown in Africa? The 2024 African Nations Championship – known as CHAN – is back, and it’s packed with drama, local talent and nonstop action. Whether you’re a die‑hard fan or just curious, this guide gives you the schedule, venues, key teams and tips to enjoy the tournament.

Schedule and Venues

CHAN 2024 kicks off in early January and runs for about three weeks. All matches are hosted in South Africa, with games spread across four stadiums: Ellis Park in Johannesburg, Cape Town’s Green Point, Durban’s Moses Mabhida, and the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Port Elizabeth. The opening match is set for January 4, and the final lands on January 23. Check the official timetable regularly – kickoff times can shift due to TV deals.

Key Teams and Players

Since CHAN only features players who ply their trade in domestic leagues, you’ll see a lot of fresh faces. Traditional powerhouses like Morocco, Nigeria and the host nation South Africa are expected to push deep. Keep an eye on Morocco’s home‑based squad – they’ve been on a roll in recent editions. Nigeria’s local league stars are also hungry to prove themselves, and Côte Ivoire’s up‑and‑coming attackers could cause upsets.

Highlight players include Morocco’s striker Ahmed Boutaleb, who’s already netted 5 goals in the qualifiers, and South Africa’s midfield dynamo Thabo Matsamo, known for his relentless work rate. Nigeria’s goalkeeper Samuel Okoye has been a wall in the group stage, while Cameroon’s winger Emmanuel Ndlovu brings speed down the wings. These names are likely to draw scouts from Europe, so the pressure is high.

If you’re planning to catch a game live, buy tickets early – South African venues sell out quickly, especially for the knockout rounds. The official ticket portal offers a range of prices, from standard seats to premium hospitality packages. Arrive at least an hour before kickoff to soak up the pre‑match atmosphere: local food stalls, music, and fan chants create a carnival vibe.

Travel tips: South Africa’s public transport is decent in the major cities, but booking a ride or shuttle ahead of time saves stress. Pack layers – evenings can be chilly, especially in Johannesburg. And don’t forget a reusable water bottle; stadiums have refill stations, and staying hydrated helps you enjoy the full 90 minutes.

Finally, follow the tournament on social media for live updates, behind‑the‑scenes content and fan polls. Many local broadcasters stream matches online, so you can keep up even if you can’t make it to the stadium. CHAN 2024 isn’t just a competition; it’s a showcase for African talent that often goes unnoticed. Dive in, cheer loud, and watch the next generation of football stars shine.