The ongoing African Nations Championship (CHAN) has taken a surprising twist, with East African nations storming the spotlight and stamping authority on the continental stage.
Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Sudan have all risen to the top of their groups, leaving traditional giants stunned and pundits impressed by their resilience and flair.
In Group A, hosts Kenya’s Harambee Stars have lived up to the home crowd’s expectations, sitting pretty at the top with seven points from three matches.
Kenya opened their campaign with a narrow 1-0 win over DR Congo, held Angola 1-1 in a tense clash, before edging Morocco 1-0 in a surprise victory.
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Kenyan coach Benni McCarthy praised his charges for their discipline and fighting spirit.
“We knew hosting comes with pressure, but the boys have shown maturity. Our aim is not just to qualify, but to go all the way. The fans have been our twelfth man. We are ready to fight for them,” he said.
Tanzania’s Taifa Stars have lit up Group B, becoming the only side to register a perfect run so far with nine points from three matches.
They have scored four goals and conceded none, showcasing both attacking flair and defensive solidity.
Their 2-0 win over Burkina Faso set the tone, followed by back-to-back victories against Central African Republic and Cameroon. Coach Hemed Suleiman hailed his side saying they will continue to press on.
“This is a new chapter for Tanzanian football. We are not here to participate; we are here to win,” he said.
In Group C, Uganda’s Cranes top the standings with six points after two wins and one loss. They beat Niger 2-0, edged Guinea 1-0, but narrowly lost 1-2 to Algeria.
Despite the setback, captain Khalid Aucho remained upbeat. “We proved we can compete with the best. The defeat to Algeria gave us lessons, but our focus is on finishing strong,” he said.
Meanwhile, Sudan have shocked many in Group D, leading with six points after winning both their matches with an impressive goal difference of +4.
Coach James Kwesi Appiah noted that their convincing displays against Nigeria and Mali have underlined their intent. “Our boys are disciplined and hungry. Every match is a final for us,” he said.
With all four East African sides topping their groups, CHAN 2024 is fast turning into a showcase of regional football might.
If their momentum continues, East Africa could dominate the knockout stages a prospect that has fans across the region breathing fire with pride.