CHAN preparations in top gear as Rayvanny to ignite opener

Dar es Salaam. As preparations for the  Saturday opening match of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) between Tanzania’s national football team, Taifa Stars, and Burkina Faso reach their peak, the Madagascar national football team is set to arrive today, joining the tournament action.

Speaking yesterday at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, the Government Chief Spokesperson and Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports, Gerson Msigwa, confirmed that Tanzania is fully prepared to host Group B matches.

All matches in this group will be played at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam.

Zanzibar, meanwhile, will serve as the venue for Group D matches, with games set to unfold at the newly refurbished Amaan Stadium.

The tournament officially kicks off on Saturday, with an electrifying opening match between Taifa Stars and Burkina Faso, expected to draw a massive crowd.

“The atmosphere is building up beautifully,” said Msigwa. “Today we welcome the Madagascar national team. Some Taifa Stars players who were in Arusha for a special tournament will also arrive in Dar es Salaam today, while the rest are expected tomorrow.”

He also revealed that officials from Mauritania will touch down today, with the team scheduled to arrive shortly after. The Central African Republic completes the list of Group B teams set to battle in Dar es Salaam.

Over in Zanzibar, preparations are equally advanced. Msigwa stated that Group D heavyweights Senegal and Nigeria have already arrived and are settling in at the Isles, while Sudan and Congo Brazzaville are expected to join them in the coming days.

“The coordination and collaboration between the government, organizers, and regional football bodies have been impressive. Everything is set for a smooth tournament,” he emphasized.

To add glamour and flavor to the much-anticipated opening ceremony, celebrated Bongo Flava sensation Rayvanny (Raymond Mwakyusa) is slated to perform, injecting excitement and entertainment into the football showcase.

Chan 2024 is expected to attract massive local and international audiences, shining a spotlight on Tanzania and Zanzibar’s ability to host major continental football events.

It also offers a unique platform for home-based players across Africa to demonstrate their talent and earn international recognition.

With just days to go, Tanzania’s football fans are eagerly waiting to rally behind Taifa Stars as they take on Burkina Faso in a must-win opener.