The ongoing CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) has seen seven nations exit the tournament at the group stage, with Guinea and Niger Republic becoming the latest casualties following Friday’s decisive matches. Their eliminations further narrow the field in the competition, which features teams composed exclusively of players from domestic leagues across the continent.
Guinea’s hopes were dashed after a 1-1 draw against Algeria in Group C, leaving them fourth in the standings with four points from four matches. Niger faced a similar fate, finishing at the bottom of the same group with just one point from three games despite having a final match remaining. South Africa bolstered their prospects with a commanding 3-1 victory over Zambia, while Nigeria’s goalless draw against South Africa earlier in the group stage failed to keep them in contention.
Uganda currently leads Group C with six points from three games, closely trailed by Algeria and South Africa, both tied on five points. The results cement Guinea and Niger’s elimination, joining Nigeria, the Central African Republic, Burkina Faso, Zambia, and Angola on the list of teams departing the tournament prematurely.
CHAN, first held in 2009, serves as a platform to showcase homegrown talent, with elimination often reflecting the competitive intensity of regional football. For nations like Nigeria – a three-time Africa Cup of Nations winner – the early exit underscores the unpredictability of tournament football, where even historically strong sides can struggle. Meanwhile, Burkina Faso, who reached the 2021 AFCON semifinals, and Angola, known for their spirited performances, will also miss the knockout rounds.
As the group phase progresses, focus shifts to surviving teams vying for a spot in the quarterfinals. With Uganda, Algeria, and South Africa now positioned to advance from Group C, the tournament’s latter stages promise heightened drama. The exits of the seven nations highlight both the narrow margins in competitive football and the rising parity among African teams, where traditional powerhouses face increasingly stiff challenges from emerging contenders.
