Latest news with #TotalEnergiesCHAN
CAF
19 hours ago
- Sport
- CAF
Champions beware: Senegal braced for Congo test in CHAN Group D
The African Nations Championship has a way of punishing overconfidence. On Tuesday in Zanzibar, reigning champions Senegal will be reminded that in tournament football, reputations count for little when the whistle blows. Their Group D meeting with Congo may be only their second outing of the 2024 TotalEnergies CHAN, but coach Souleymane Diallo has already branded it a potential 'trap' — the kind that can derail a title defence before it has truly begun. It is a clash of two seasoned CHAN campaigners who have never crossed paths in this competition, yet both arrive with ambition sharp enough to cut through the humid Tanzanian air. For Senegal, victory would all but confirm a place in the quarterfinals. For Congo, it could throw the group into chaos. A Champion's Caution Diallo is not in the business of underestimating opponents. The Senegal coach has made clear that his side's preparation for Congo has been exhaustive, informed by detailed scouting from their first match. 'We sent colleagues who watched Congo's first game, and a report was sent to me, which I exploited, and we'll prepare our game approach based on that report,' Diallo revealed. 'It's a team that plays well as a unit, very resilient, and they play well on both flanks, utilizing a 4-2-3-1 formation with wing-backs providing width.' For all of Senegal's attacking power, the champions will be wary of Congo's pace up front — forwards who thrive on darting into spaces behind the backline. Diallo's challenge is to close those channels while ensuring his side remains threatening in possession. Blueprint for Retaining the Crown This is not just another group-stage fixture for Diallo. It's part of a larger blueprint designed to keep Senegal's name etched on the trophy. 'We know the variant in Congo's game,' he said. 'The most important thing is what we do in the game. A plan was put in place throughout the week. We had five days to prepare. Tomorrow, we would try to apply a plan against Congo, focusing on maintaining possession and creating scoring opportunities.' Senegal's method is clear: control the ball, dictate the rhythm, and be ruthless in the final third. That focus on disciplined execution is what carried them to their first CHAN crown in Algeria, and Diallo sees no reason to abandon it now. Koite's Quiet Confidence In Serigne Koite, Senegal have a midfielder who embodies calm under pressure. His vision and awareness unlocked Nigeria's defence in their opening game, pouncing on a loose ball before drawing the goalkeeper and squaring for Christian Gomis to score the only goal in the 75th minute. 'We wish to validate our qualification to quarterfinals,' Koite said, reflecting the measured focus that has become his hallmark. Koite's pedigree extends beyond this tournament — a CHAN silver medallist and now a gold medallist, with a championship-winning season at AS Jaraaf fresh in his mind. Those experiences could prove invaluable in navigating a tense fixture. Congo's Calculated Push Across the touchline, Congo arrive with their own sense of purpose. A battling 1-1 draw against Sudan on matchday one demonstrated their resilience. Down early to Musa Ali Hussein's strike, they fought back to level in the 86th minute through Carly Ekongo's opportunistic finish. Head coach Barthélemy Ngatsono, 68, has seen enough high-pressure football to know this is an opportunity to shift the group's balance. 'After the Sudan game, we took away both positives and negatives,' Ngatsono said. 'But we've trained with full awareness of what's at stake against Senegal. We didn't come here just to watch others lift the trophy. Like every other team, we're here for results.' Congo's Calculated Push Across the touchline, Congo arrive with their own sense of purpose. A battling 1-1 draw against Sudan on matchday one demonstrated their resilience. Down early to Musa Ali Hussein's strike, they fought back to level in the 86th minute through Carly Ekongo's opportunistic finish. Head coach Barthélemy Ngatsono, 68, has seen enough high-pressure football to know this is an opportunity to shift the group's balance. 'After the Sudan game, we took away both positives and negatives,' Ngatsono said. 'But we've trained with full awareness of what's at stake against Senegal. We didn't come here just to watch others lift the trophy. Like every other team, we're here for results.' Team Over Individual Glory Forward Japhet Mankou reinforced the team-first ethos. 'It's not about one player. It's about the team. We have to unite and give everything for the win,' Mankou said. He dismissed any talk of a battle between domestic leagues, insisting this match is about national pride: 'It's not about the leagues, this is Congo versus Senegal. We're fully committed to executing our game plan and following the instructions of our technical staff.' Physical and Tactical Stakes Group D's scheduling has given teams extra recovery time, something Ngatsono believes could help maintain intensity. 'The game spacing helps teams in Group D. It gives us better recovery time and more preparation for each match,' he noted. That could prove crucial against a Senegal side that thrives on high-tempo pressing and quick transitions. If Congo can frustrate the champions, the contest could open up late — as it did against Sudan. High Stakes, First Meeting With both sides making their fourth CHAN appearance and Nigeria and Sudan waiting in the wings, this first-ever meeting between Senegal and Congo promises to shape the group's destiny. A win for Senegal sends them to six points and into the last eight. A win for Congo, and suddenly the defending champions are under pressure. Either way, expect a match thick with tension, where one moment of brilliance or one lapse in concentration could settle it. For Diallo's champions, the warning has already been sounded. For Ngatsono's challengers, the chance to spring a surprise has never looked more inviting.
CAF
3 days ago
- Sport
- CAF
Ahmed El Moctar's Golden Night: The man who ended Mauritania's goal drought in style
When Mauritania needed a hero, Ahmed Mokhtar Ahmed stepped forward — and in one unforgettable evening at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, he became more than just a striker. He became the lifeline of the Mourabitounes' CHAN 2024 campaign, ending a frustrating scoring drought, securing their first win, and walking away with the TotalEnergies Man of the Match award. Breaking the Drought, Igniting the Dream For two games, Mauritania's forwards had chased goals in vain, firing blanks against Madagascar and Tanzania. But on Saturday, 9 August, Mokhtar changed the story within nine minutes of kick-off. Pouncing on a perfectly delivered cross from Abdallah Mahmoud, he guided the ball into the net with precision and composure. It was a goal that did more than just break the deadlock — it broke the chains of uncertainty, giving Mauritania the belief and momentum they needed to control the game against the Central African Republic. The 1-0 victory lifted Mauritania to four points in Group B and reopened the door to the knockout stages. A Striker's Night to Remember The headlines may focus on his goal, but Mokhtar's impact ran deeper. He wasn't just a finisher — he was a creator, a constant threat, and a tactical focal point in coach Artiz Garai Lopez's attacking plan. From pressing defenders to holding up play and drawing markers away from his teammates, his intelligent movement kept the Central African backline on edge. His work rate and sharp reading of the game turned him into the pivot around which Mauritania's attacks revolved. 'I congratulate my teammates and also the coach after the victory over the Central African Republic. We have now won our first match in the TotalEnergies CHAN, and we will look to deliver a better performance in our next match, God willing,' El Moctar said, smiling in the post-match press conference. Man of the Match and a Mental Boost Winning the TotalEnergies Man of the Match award wasn't just a personal achievement — it was symbolic of Mauritania's revival. For Mokhtar, the recognition was an emotional lift, a public acknowledgment of the energy, movement, and commitment he poured into the game. 'We prepared well for the match against the Central African Republic in training, and in the end, we managed to win,' he added. The Tactical Catalyst Mokhtar's role extended beyond statistics. By drifting wide, dropping deep, and constantly switching positions, he disrupted the rhythm of the Central African defence. His runs created pockets of space for midfielders to exploit, while his link-up play kept Mauritania in control of the tempo. That relentless mobility was not just tactical — it was psychological. His early strike lit a fire in his teammates, raising their tempo and intensifying their duels across the pitch. What Comes Next With this win, Mauritania's hopes remain alive. More importantly, they have rediscovered their scoring touch, and Ahmed Mokhtar has proven he is the man for the big moments. For the Mourabitounes, the mission is clear: build on this performance and carry the momentum into the decisive stages of CHAN 2024.
CAF
4 days ago
- Sport
- CAF
CAR's Ngato express cautious optimism ahead of 'do-or-die' Mauritania clash
Published: Friday, 08 August 2025 Central African Republic's coach, Sébastien Ngato stated that his players expect a challenging game against Mauritania, but they have what it entails to deliver in their second group game of the 2024 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN). The encounter scheduled for 5pm on August 9 at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium pits two teams in search of their first win in the competition - with the winner standing a chance of getting a spot in the knockout stages. Fresh from their 2-4 defeat in their first outing against Burkina Faso three days ago, Ngato highlighted the importance of the game, stating that his team will rectify their mistakes and come out all guns blazing to secure a win. "This is our second match, while it's the third for our opponent. If we don't win, it will be game over for us. We've discussed with the players to find solutions and up our game." Ngato described the game as a "tough battle" and stated, "The opponent has played one more match than us; they lost and drew. It will be a grueling confrontation, and we can't afford to make mistakes. If we lose, it will be catastrophic." For both teams avoiding an early exit from the historic TotalEnergies CHAN "PAMOJA" 2024 football frenzy is a need. So the Mauritanians are also keen on getting a result. Mauritania's coach, Artiz Garay Lopez, considers the match a "make-or-break" encounter, where victory would be a crucial step towards qualification for the knockout stages. Mauritania's Road to Qualification Narrowing Coach Lopez, stressed the importance of Saturday's showdown: "This is a very important match. We only have one point from our first two games. We played well against Tanzania, but without achieving a good result. This match will be do-or-die; our opponent lost their first game."The gaffer added, "This confrontation can open the door of qualification for us. We need to prepare well. Be physically and mentally ready to seal our fate." Lopez has his target fixed Garay Lopez indicated that his goal is to finish second in the group, considering Tanzania as the favorites for first place. "Analyzing the groups before the tournament, I said Tanzania is the favorite of Group B. So, we aim for second place and a spot in the knockout stages. He reiterated that the match against the Central African Republic is a real final for his players: "We want to play with calmness and no rush. The opponent is solid. It will be a final showdown for us." Mauritanian midfielder, Mohamed Lemine Houboutt declared that he and his mates have victory as the only objective. "We know the importance of this match. It will be decisive for our future in this tournament. We'll play with concentration, discipline, and calmness to emerge victorious."
CAF
03-08-2025
- Sport
- CAF
Kenya seal historic win over two-time champions DR Congo in CHAN bow
Published: Sunday, 03 August 2025 Kenya marked their long-awaited debut at the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024 with a statement 1-0 victory over two-time champions DR Congo at a sold-out Moi International Sports Centre in Nairobi on Sunday. Austin Odhiambo's first-half strike proved decisive in a tightly-contested Group A opener that saw the hosts overcome a nervy start and assert their place on the continental stage in front of an electric home crowd. The TotalEnergies CHAN is a biennial tournament exclusively reserved for players who compete in their country's domestic leagues, offering a platform for emerging local talents to shine—and Kenya's new generation did not disappoint. After a disallowed goal for DR Congo in the fifth minute—Jephté Kitambala's strike ruled out for offside following a VAR review—Kenya settled into the match, buoyed by vocal support from 60,000 fans in the stands. Despite DR Congo dominating early possession, the hosts remained disciplined and grew into the game. The breakthrough came just before the break when Odhiambo latched onto a pass from David Sakwa in the 45+2 minute, coolly guiding a left-footed shot into the bottom corner beyond Brudel Efonge. It was a goal that lifted the roof off the stadium and symbolised a changing of the guard—Kenya, making their CHAN finals debut, had taken the lead against one of the tournament's most successful sides. DR Congo, who had failed to score in the 2022 edition and were determined to rewrite the script under Otis Ngoma, pushed for an equaliser in the second half. They dominated set-pieces and came close through headers from Jonathan Mokonzi and Kitambala, but Kenya's defence held firm. Goalkeeper Byrne Omondi made a crucial save in the 59th minute, tipping Heltone Kayembe's powerful drive over the bar, while defenders Sylvester Owino and Alphonce Omija repelled a late barrage of Congolese corners. Kenya's head coach Benni McCarthy made a series of tactical substitutions to shore up the midfield and protect the lead, introducing the likes of Mike Kibwage and Marvin Nabwire to steady the team in the final 15 minutes. Seven minutes of stoppage time tested Kenyan nerves, but the hosts held on to register a memorable first-ever CHAN victory, becoming only the third debutant nation to win their opening match in the tournament's history. For DR Congo, the defeat extends their winless run in the competition to five matches, leaving them with plenty to do in their remaining Group A fixtures. Kenya next face Angola on Thursday, while DR Congo will seek redemption against Morocco.
CAF
03-08-2025
- Sport
- CAF
Kenya seal historic over two-time champions DR Congo in CHAN bow
Published: Sunday, 03 August 2025 Kenya marked their long-awaited debut at the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024 with a statement 1-0 victory over two-time champions DR Congo at a sold-out Moi International Sports Centre in Nairobi on Sunday. Austin Odhiambo's first-half strike proved decisive in a tightly-contested Group A opener that saw the hosts overcome a nervy start and assert their place on the continental stage in front of an electric home crowd. The TotalEnergies CHAN is a biennial tournament exclusively reserved for players who compete in their country's domestic leagues, offering a platform for emerging local talents to shine—and Kenya's new generation did not disappoint. After a disallowed goal for DR Congo in the fifth minute—Jephté Kitambala's strike ruled out for offside following a VAR review—Kenya settled into the match, buoyed by vocal support from 60,000 fans in the stands. Despite DR Congo dominating early possession, the hosts remained disciplined and grew into the game. The breakthrough came just before the break when Odhiambo latched onto a pass from David Sakwa in the 45+2 minute, coolly guiding a left-footed shot into the bottom corner beyond Brudel Efonge. It was a goal that lifted the roof off the stadium and symbolised a changing of the guard—Kenya, making their CHAN finals debut, had taken the lead against one of the tournament's most successful sides. DR Congo, who had failed to score in the 2022 edition and were determined to rewrite the script under Otis Ngoma, pushed for an equaliser in the second half. They dominated set-pieces and came close through headers from Jonathan Mokonzi and Kitambala, but Kenya's defence held firm. Goalkeeper Byrne Omondi made a crucial save in the 59th minute, tipping Heltone Kayembe's powerful drive over the bar, while defenders Sylvester Owino and Alphonce Omija repelled a late barrage of Congolese corners. Kenya's head coach Benni McCarthy made a series of tactical substitutions to shore up the midfield and protect the lead, introducing the likes of Mike Kibwage and Marvin Nabwire to steady the team in the final 15 minutes. Seven minutes of stoppage time tested Kenyan nerves, but the hosts held on to register a memorable first-ever CHAN victory, becoming only the third debutant nation to win their opening match in the tournament's history. For DR Congo, the defeat extends their winless run in the competition to five matches, leaving them with plenty to do in their remaining Group A fixtures. Kenya next face Angola on Thursday, while DR Congo will seek redemption against Morocco.
