The second round of qualifiers for the 2025 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) unfolded with thrilling moments on Saturday, as the Central African Republic, Burkina Faso, Nigeria, Guinea, Senegal, and DR Congo secured their spots in the tournament’s final phase.
In a remarkable achievement, the Central African Republic (CAR) qualified for the first time by defeating Cameroon 2-1 in a dramatic comeback in Bafoussam. After Cameroon took the lead in the 31st minute through Angel Yondjo Matah, Barry Nelson equalized with a penalty, and Bertillon Arnold Yangana scored the decisive goal in the 87th minute. This marks the first time in seven editions that Cameroon, semi-finalists in 2021, will not participate in CHAN.
In Bamako, Burkina Faso staged a comeback from a two-goal deficit against Côte d’Ivoire, with Aboubacar Traoré and Franck Kanté scoring to level the aggregate score, resulting in a penalty shootout. The Stallions demonstrated composure, converting four penalties compared to the Elephants’ two, thus earning their place in CHAN 2025.
Meanwhile, DR Congo continued their strong performance at home, beating Chad 3-1 in Kinshasa to secure their spot in the February tournament. Oscar Kabwit opened the scoring for the Leopards, while Jonathan Mokonzi and Nyembo Ntumba added to the tally in the second half after Chad briefly equalized with a goal from Ahmat Abdraman.
Additionally, Guinea confirmed their dominance over Guinea-Bissau with a 2-1 victory on the road, resulting in a 6-2 aggregate win. Goals from Mohamed Saliou Bangoura and Naby Bangoura paved the way for Guinea’s qualification under coach Souleymane Camara Abedy.
The Black Galaxies’ aspirations for a second straight appearance in the African Nations Championship (CHAN) were halted following a 3-1 loss to Nigeria at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Saturday. Poor defensive plays and squandered chances proved detrimental as the Super Eagles executed a precise first half to clinch their spot in the 2025 CHAN finals.
Nigeria quickly established control, with Ismaila Sodiq scoring in the 19th minute after taking advantage of a defensive error. Just three minutes later, Nduka Junior extended the lead with a powerful shot that left Ghana’s goalkeeper helpless. The hosts continued to dominate, and Isaac Saviour netted the third goal in the 25th minute, putting the game largely out of reach before halftime.
The Black Galaxies, needing at least a draw to advance, struggled in the first half but improved in the second. Stephen Amankona from Berekum Chelsea managed to score for Ghana in the 73rd minute, providing a flicker of hope. However, despite their increased aggression, Nigeria’s defense held strong, thwarting Ghana’s efforts for a comeback. This defeat concludes Ghana’s CHAN journey, as Nigeria exacted revenge for their earlier elimination in the 2023 qualifiers. Moving forward, the Black Galaxies will need to regroup and prepare for future competitions.
In other news, Niger secured their place in the 2025 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) after a goalless draw against Togo in their second-leg match on Friday. The Mena A’ team advanced on the away goals rule, having previously drawn 1-1 in the first leg held in Lomé. The encounter at the Stade du 26 Mars in Bamako, Mali, featured a cautious approach from both sides, and despite their efforts, Togo could not break through Niger’s defense. This result marks Niger’s fifth appearance in the CHAN finals, reinforcing their reputation as a consistent competitor in the tournament.
Additionally, Sudan qualified for the 2024 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) with a determined 2-1 victory over Ethiopia in their second-leg match on Wednesday. Following a 2-0 win in the first leg, Sudan advanced comfortably with a 4-1 aggregate score. The match, played in front of an enthusiastic home crowd, saw Musa Kanti score in the 16th minute, putting pressure on the Walya Antelopes, who were already facing a three-goal deficit.
Ethiopia struggled to establish momentum in the first half as Sudan’s defense held firm. After halftime, the visitors showed more resolve and equalized in the 65th minute with a goal from Bekele Berhane. However, their celebration was short-lived as Sudan’s captain, Mohamed Abdelrahman, quickly restored the lead just four minutes later, securing the victory and Sudan’s fourth qualification for CHAN.
Ethiopia’s spirited efforts came up short, as they could not overcome their first-leg deficit. Sudan’s consistent performance throughout the qualifiers was evident, as they maintained control across both matches, setting their sights on the tournament in February. The eagerly awaited CHAN tournament will be held from February 1 to 28, 2025, co-hosted by Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda, providing a platform for local talents to shine on a continental stage.
