By Daniel Muwonge
Niger have become the first team to touch down in Uganda for the 2024 TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN), setting the pace for what’s shaping up to be a tightly contested Group C.
The West African side landed in Kampala on Monday night, underlining their intent and focus as they get ready for their fifth CHAN appearance.
Their early arrival gives them valuable time to adapt to the conditions and sharpen preparations ahead of the tournament’s kickoff on August 2.
Grouped alongside hosts Uganda, Algeria and South Africa, Niger’s move is being viewed as a calculated effort to gain a slight edge in what’s expected to be one of the tournament’s toughest groups.
CHAN, which features players active only in their home leagues, offers Niger another chance to make a mark on the continental stage.
Their best showing came in 2011 when they reached the quarterfinals, and they’ll be hoping to push further this year.
