Two-time champions Morocco have become the first nation to arrive for the 2024 TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN), setting the pace for what is shaping up to be an electrifying tournament co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
The Atlas Lions touched down at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport at 4:00 a.m. local time on Monday, where they were warmly welcomed with traditional East African music and dancing in a vibrant cultural display.
With their sights firmly set on becoming the first country to win the CHAN title three times, the North African heavyweights are wasting no time. The team has already begun its final preparations ahead of the tournament’s kickoff.
“We’re thrilled to be here and ready for CHAN,” said defender Marouane Louadni of AS FAR. “I already love Nairobi – the weather is great, and we’re looking forward to a successful tournament.”
Group A Powerhouse
Morocco’s early arrival underlines their determination to dominate Group A, which features hosts Kenya alongside DR Congo, Angola, and Zambia. The Atlas Lions open their campaign on Sunday against Angola at the Nyayo National Stadium.
Winners of the tournament in 2018 (on home soil) and 2021 (in Cameroon), Morocco share the record for most CHAN titles with DR Congo — a team they will face in the group stage. Their rich tournament history and depth of talent make them strong contenders in a highly competitive group.
In the lead-up to the championship, the 28-man Moroccan squad underwent an intensive training camp, including two friendlies against Burkina Faso and a resounding 6-0 victory over Chad during the latest FIFA international window — all pointing to a team in peak physical and tactical shape.
Nairobi Gears Up for Historic Tournament
With the tournament set to run from 2–30 August, anticipation is building across Nairobi. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the Local Organising Committee (LOC) have already launched ticketing plans, and excitement is mounting among fans eager to witness one of Kenya’s biggest-ever sporting events.
Exclusively for players who feature in their domestic leagues, CHAN offers a vital platform for local talent to shine on the continental stage. Matches will be played across venues in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda — a key test of East Africa’s readiness to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Group A Teams Set to Arrive
With Morocco leading the way, the rest of Group A teams are expected to arrive soon. Zambia is due in Nairobi on Tuesday, while Angola and DR Congo are scheduled to land on Thursday.
As the first side on the ground, Morocco hopes that their head start will give them the edge as they chase a historic third CHAN title — a feat that would cement their place as the tournament’s most successful team.
