Congo Disqualified from 2024 CHAN as Equatorial Guinea Advances
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has disqualified Congo from the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) due to multiple regulatory breaches during their qualification matches against Equatorial Guinea. This decision, announced on January 20, follows an investigation triggered by a formal complaint from the Equatorial Guinea Football Federation.
Congo had initially advanced to CHAN after a 0-0 draw in the first leg on December 21, 2024, and a 2-1 victory in the return leg on December 29. However, CAF nullified both results after discovering that Congo failed to present valid national licenses for their players and fielded an ineligible player, Mankou Nguembete Japhet Eloi, in both games. These actions violated several CHAN regulations and the CAF Disciplinary Code.
As a result, CAF awarded Equatorial Guinea 3-0 forfeit victories for both matches, granting them a place in Group D of the tournament alongside defending champions Senegal, Sudan, and Nigeria. The reshuffled group is expected to add fresh competition to CHAN, which is set for August 2025 and will be co-hosted by Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania.
Additionally, the Congolese Football Federation (FECOFOOT) has been fined $10,000, with the penalty to be paid within 60 days. This decision underscores CAFβs commitment to upholding tournament regulations and ensuring fair play.