The stage is set for a fiery clash as Sudan begins its African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2025 journey with a challenging encounter against Congo on Tuesday, August 5. This matchup marks the opening game of Group D, launching both teams into a high-stakes race toward the knockout rounds.

Held under a historic joint hosting arrangement between Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, this year’s CHAN edition brings together 19 national teams spread across four competitive groups.

When and Where to Watch Sudan vs Congo – CHAN 2025

This game is particularly significant as it's the first-ever official CHAN meeting between Sudan and Congo. Both sides will be eager to set the tone for their tournament run in this tightly contested group.

Group D is arguably the most intense of the tournament, featuring Sudan, Congo, Senegal, and Nigeria—all nations with strong footballing heritage.

What makes this group even more demanding? Unlike the other groups, which feature five teams, Group D includes only four, meaning every point matters and the margin for error is razor-thin. With just two qualification spots available, a single result could make or break a team’s campaign.

Congo enters its fifth appearance in CHAN history. The team previously reached the quarterfinals in 2018 and 2020, showing moments of promise.

However, recent performances have highlighted an alarming lack of attacking output. Congo has failed to score in their last three CHAN matches, and their last notable victory came in 2018, with a 2–0 win over Burkina Faso.

In contrast, the team exited the group stage in both 2014 and 2022. This year's tournament presents a chance for Congo to rewrite its narrative and finally live up to its potential.

The Sudanese national team is no stranger to the CHAN spotlight. In four previous appearances, they reached the semifinals twice—first in 2011, then again in 2018.

Despite their proud history, Sudan endured a disappointing CHAN 2022 campaign, exiting in the group stage without a single win and suffering two back-to-back defeats.

Their best achievement remains a third-place finish in 2011 on home soil. Since then, notable victories include:

Sudan punched their ticket to CHAN 2025 via the CECAFA Zone. In the qualifiers, they defeated Tanzania 1–0 in the first leg, but lost 1–0 in the return match, resulting in a 1–1 aggregate draw.

The tie went to a tense penalty shootout, where Sudan held their nerve to win 6–5, securing qualification in dramatic fashion.

For Sudan’s “Jedayin Falcons”, today’s match isn't just an opener—it's the first brushstroke on a canvas that could lead to continental glory. With high hopes of rekindling their former success, they must capitalize on every moment.

Meanwhile, Congo enters with ambition and pressure, seeking redemption after inconsistent past showings. Their experience could be an asset—or a burden.

Given the limited qualification slots, each Group D clash feels like a mini-final. There's no room for error, no time to hesitate. Whether it ends in triumph or heartbreak, this match will surely leave a mark on the path to CHAN 2025 glory.