Historic CHAN day in Zanzibar as Senegal take on Nigeria in Group D clash

Dar es Salaam. The New Amaan Complex is set to make history on August 5, 2025, when it hosts its first-ever match of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024.

The day will feature a double-header of high-stakes football, highlighted by defending champions Senegal facing off against continental heavyweights Nigeria in the Group D nightcap.

 The action begins at 5pm with Congo Brazzaville taking on Niger, followed by the headline fixture between Senegal and Nigeria at 8pm.

Both matches will be played at the state-of-the-art New Amaan Complex, a key symbol of Zanzibar’s growing stature in regional and international football.

Zanzibar Football Federation (ZFF) Secretary General Hussein Ahmada Vuai confirmed that preparations for the big day have been completed.

He added that all stadium gates will open from 2pm, and that fans will be able to watch both matches with a single-entry ticket.

“This is a proud moment for Zanzibar and Tanzanian football as a whole. We’re ready to host Africa.

All logistics, security, and technical requirements have been addressed. We invite fans from across the Isles and Mainland to come witness history,” Vuai told The Citizen.

Vuai further confirmed that the Minister of Information, Youth, Culture, and Sports, Tabia Maulid Mwita, will grace the occasion as the special guest of honour.

“Her presence reflects the importance of this event, not just in footballing terms, but also as a platform for showcasing Zanzibar’s sporting and infrastructural progress,” he added.

The match itself carries significant weight. Reigning CHAN champions Senegal arrive in Zanzibar under a cloud of uncertainty, having lost their last two competitive matches.

Coach Souleymane Diallo acknowledges the pressure but remains optimistic about a turnaround.

“We are aware of the expectations. The title defense starts here, and we are not taking anything for granted. Nigeria are strong, but so are we. Our focus is on getting a good start and restoring confidence in our camp,” Diallo said in the pre-match press conference.

Nigeria, on the other hand, come into the fixture with a more stable form. The West African giants are unbeaten in their last five games and have shown tactical maturity and defensive resilience.

Head coach Daniel Ogunmodede believes his side has what it takes to challenge any opponent in the competition.

“This is a major tournament, and every match is like a final. Senegal are champions for a reason, but we’ve done our homework.

We respect them, but we’re here to compete, not just participate,” Ogunmodede stated. With no injury concerns reported in either camp, both teams are expected to field their strongest line-ups