CAF reinstates a team into CHAN 2025 after a successful appeal overturned disqualification over player eligibility and licensing issues.
Congo-Brazzaville have been reinstated into the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifiers after winning a dramatic appeal against their earlier disqualification.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) confirmed the decision on Wednesday, ending a period of uncertainty for the Central African nation.
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The reversal sees Congo replace Equatorial Guinea in the competition, following a successful appeal to the CAF Appeals Board.
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Equatorial Guinea had initially won a protest claiming that Congo fielded an ineligible player, forward Japhet Mankou, and used invalid player licenses during their qualifying clash.
Congo had triumphed 2-1 on aggregate in their qualifier against Equatorial Guinea, but were later disqualified by the CAF Disciplinary Board. That ruling temporarily saw Equatorial Guinea reinstated in their place, sparking discontent and a swift response from the Congolese Football Federation.
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However, the Appeals Board ultimately overturned the Disciplinary Board’s decision, determining that Congo met the eligibility criteria and should rightfully retain their spot in the biennial tournament.
FIFA Ban Lifted, Road to CHAN Reopened
Congo’s return to international football was only made possible after FIFA lifted a prior suspension on the country’s participation in global competitions.
The ban, issued due to governmental interference in football operations, was rescinded last month after reforms were reportedly implemented.
This paved the way for Congo to resume their CHAN campaign and appeal their disqualification.
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Their successful case now ensures they will take part in this year’s tournament, hosted jointly by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda from August 2 to 30.
Tough Challenge Ahead in Group D
Congo have been drawn into a challenging Group D, where they will face title-holders Senegal, continental heavyweights Nigeria, and Sudan.
Only the top two teams from each group will progress to the quarter-finals, setting the stage for fierce competition.
CHAN, unlike the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), is reserved exclusively for players who play in their country of birth, making it a unique platform to showcase domestic talent.
The tournament has grown significantly in stature since its inception in 2009, and the 2025 edition promises to be one of the most competitive yet.