Congo coach Ngatsono hails growing competitiveness of TotalEnergies CAF CHAN

Following Congo’s opening draw against Sudan at the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024, head coach Barthélémy Ngatsono has hailed the tournament’s growing level of competitiveness and professionalism.

Ngatsono watched his side rally to secure a hard-fought point in a tightly contested encounter, which he believes showcased the elevated standard of the continental showpiece.

“It was a good game. It was quite balanced between two sides that wanted maximum points,” the coach said post-match.

 “The Sudanese had a good first half, but my players showed character today and fought hard to earn this point.”

While content with the result, Ngatsono was especially complimentary of the tournament’s organization and the technical level of competition being displayed so far in East Africa.

“I must say congratulations to the organizers and organizing nations. The tournament is growing and matches are becoming more technical. The facilities and everything makes the matches very competitive,” he noted.

“In football there are three results, winning, losing and a draw, and I'm very happy to get that one point. As everyone saw today, the teams are very prepared.”

Ngatsono added that Congo will take key lessons from the game, and immediately turn their focus to their next challenge, a crucial Group C clash against defending champions Senegal in August.

“We now focus all our attention on the game against Senegal. I must say kudos to Sudan as well, but we will learn from this game and come back better.”