As the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN 2024) co-hosts Kenya brace for what promises to be a historic tournament, focus shifts to their tournament’s opening fixture opponent on Sunday, August 3, 2025, the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The two sides will lock horns at the newly refurbished Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, this Sunday, starting at 3 pm East African Time. As a result of the heavy magnitude this fixture carries, match tickets for the encounter have already sold out.

Regarded as one of the tournament’s favourites, Congo’s national team, famously known as the Red Devils, is back in the spotlight as they gear up for another campaign in the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024. With previous quarter-final exits in 2018 and 2020, the squad, under the guidance of coach Barthélémy Ngatsono, is determined to break new ground this time around in East Africa.

How they qualified

The Congolese side punched their ticket to this year’s tournament by edging out Equatorial Guinea. A goalless stalemate in the first leg away from home was followed by a vital 2-1 win in Brazzaville, sealing their qualification.

One of the standout figures in the squad is goalkeeper Chelcy Bonazebi of Red Star. Standing nearly two meters tall, Bonazebi is a commanding presence between the posts. His sharp instincts, dominance in aerial duels, and composure in organising the defence make him a key asset in Congo’s backline.

Coach Ngatsono brings a wealth of experience to the dugout, recognised for his strategic mindset and ability to adjust his game plan based on the opposition. His coaching philosophy blends solid defensive structure with swift counterattacking play, all underpinned by rigorous physical and mental conditioning.

Heading into their fifth CHAN appearance (following outings in 2014, 2018, 2020, and 2022), Congo arrives with a balanced squad of veterans and rising stars. This blend, along with their tactical versatility, positions them as potential contenders for a deeper tournament run. If the Red Devils manage to go past the semi-finals, it will be their best finish in CHAN history.

Both Kenya’s Harambee Stars and DR Congo are in Group A of the 2024 African Nations Championship alongside Morocco, Angola and Zambia.