Two of Africa’s biggest football tournaments are coming up, but they are quite different from each other. Here’s a simple guide to both.

What Is the African Nations Championship (CHAN)?

The African Nations Championship, or CHAN, is a football tournament for players who play in their home country’s local leagues.

It happens every two years. Only players playing in their domestic leagues in Africa can take part.

It is organised by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). The first edition was held in 2009.

Unlike the bigger AFCON, CHAN only features players from their country’s local leagues.

CHAN 2024 Postponed to August 2025

Originally set for early 2025, the 2024 CHAN tournament has been delayed.

CAF announced on 14 January 2025 that the event would be pushed back to August 2025.

This gives organisers more time to prepare and hold another qualifying round for the final teams.

The tournament will still be hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. However, officials said Kenya’s preparations were "miles behind" schedule.

“The tournament gives a chance to local players to shine on a big stage,” says a CAF official.

What Is the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON)?

The Africa Cup of Nations, or AFCON, is Africa’s main football competition for national teams.

Open to all eligible players, including those playing abroad.

First held in 1957 with just three teams: Egypt, Sudan, and Ethiopia.

Held every two years since 1968.

Switched to odd-numbered years in 2013 to avoid clashing with the FIFA World Cup.

Read More: Why SuperSport will not air the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations

AFCON’s History and Success

Egypt holds the record for most wins with seven titles.

Cameroon has won five times.

Ghana has four titles.

Ivory Coast are the current champions, having beaten Nigeria 2–1 in the 2023 final.

Three different trophies have been awarded in AFCON history. The current trophy has been in use since 2002.

Notable AFCON Moments

Egypt won three times in a row (2006, 2008, 2010) — a record.

The tournament is famous for featuring top African players from leagues all over the world, such as the Premier League and La Liga.

“AFCON is Africa’s biggest football celebration, bringing the continent together,” says a former player.