The CHAN 2024 buzz has officially hit the runway — and the arrivals have begun!
With just days to go before kickoff, national teams are jetting into Uganda for the much-anticipated TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024.
The first team to land? Niger! The West African squad touched down at Entebbe International Airport, making headlines as the first delegation to arrive ahead of what promises to be one of the most thrilling CHAN tournaments yet.
“The heat is on. The players are arriving. The continent is watching!” – TPR Sports Desk
Special Airport Arrivals for CHAN 2024
Uganda’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) isn’t taking any chances when it comes to hosting.
To ensure smooth arrivals for all teams, a special CHAN 2024 arrivals desk has been set up at Entebbe Airport. This exclusive area is designed to fast-track immigration, luggage, and logistics for the visiting squads.
Expect more arrivals throughout the week as the rest of the 19 participating nations head to their respective host cities in Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania.
Niger Set to Open With Guinea in Kampala
Team Niger isn’t just first in — they’re also the first to hit the pitch in Uganda.
Their opening showdown is set for:
Monday, August 4
5:00 PM
️ Mandela National Stadium, Namboole
⚽ Niger vs Guinea
Later that evening, Uganda Cranes will make their grand entrance, taking on Algeria in the 8:00 PM slot, rounding off an epic double-header.
What Makes CHAN 2024 So Unique?
Unlike the more star-studded AFCON, the CHAN tournament is strictly for players competing in their home domestic leagues. No overseas-based players allowed.
That means CHAN is:
- A true showcase of homegrown African talent
- A launchpad for rising stars to grab the continent’s attention
- A raw, emotional, and intensely competitive tournament
This year’s edition will feature 19 national teams, split into four groups.
“CHAN is where legends begin. It’s Africa’s football heart, unfiltered and uncensored.”
Uganda’s Role in a Historic Three-Nation CHAN
This isn’t just any tournament — this is history in the making.
For the first time ever, CHAN will be co-hosted by three East African countries:
- Uganda
- Kenya
- Tanzania
The trio is calling it the PAMOJA partnership, which is also a trial run for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which will also be jointly hosted by the same nations.
Uganda Hosts Group C Matches:
Uganda will host Group C — arguably one of the most competitive groups — with:
- Uganda
- Algeria
- Niger
- Guinea
- South Africa
All Group C matches will take place at the newly renovated Mandela National Stadium (Namboole), which has been upgraded to meet CAF international standards.
CHAN 2024 — Key Dates You Need to Know
- Aug 2, 2025: Official tournament kickoff in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
- Aug 4, 2025: Uganda begins its campaign at Namboole
- Throughout August: Double-header matches in Kampala
- Aug 30, 2025: Grand finale in Nairobi, Kenya
What’s Next?
As teams continue to land and preparations ramp up, the energy in Kampala is building by the hour. Expect streets filled with flags, fan chants echoing through the night, and local vendors prepping for what could be a record tourism boost.
Uganda is ready. The stadium is ready. Are you?
Final Word: Let the Games Begin!
CHAN 2024 isn’t just a football tournament — it’s a celebration of local African excellence. And with teams like Niger already on the ground, it’s officially GAME ON.
️ Still haven’t gotten your ticket?
Click here for the full guide on how to book CHAN 2024 tickets in Uganda →
Which team are you rooting for in CHAN 2024? Who do you think will take the trophy home? Let us know in the comments below!
Keep it locked on The Pop Radar (TPR) for exclusive player arrivals, matchday drama, and all the spicy sideline tea.
