TotalEnergies CAF CHAN 2024: Know Your Team: Congo
Congo’s Red Devils return to the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 with hopes of surpassing their previous best performances.
After reaching the quarter-finals in 2018 and 2020, the team, led by head coach Barthélémy Ngatsono, is eager to take the next step and establish themselves among Africa's elite.
Factfile
- Nickname: The Red Devils
- Number of Appearances: 5 (2014, 2018, 2020, 2022, 2024)
- Best Performance: Quarter-finals (2018, 2020)
How They Qualified
Congo overcame Equatorial Guinea in a tightly contested qualification series. After a 0-0 draw away, they secured a crucial 2-1 victory at home to book their place in the tournament.
Player to Watch
- Chelcy Bonazebi: The Red Star goalkeeper stands out for his towering presence at 1.97m and exceptional reflexes. Known for his commanding aerial ability and excellent game reading, Bonazebi has been a stabilizing force in Congo’s defense. His calm demeanor under pressure and ability to organize the backline will be vital to the team's success.
Coach: Barthélémy Ngatsono
Ngatsono has built a reputation for his tactical astuteness and ability to adapt to different opponents. His balanced approach combines defensive organization with quick transitions to exploit opportunities. With a strong emphasis on physical preparation and discipline, he ensures his team is ready for the demands of top-le
vel competition.
What to Expect
Congo aims to break their quarter-final ceiling in this year’s CHAN. Armed with a mix of experienced players and emerging talents, the Red Devils are well-positioned to make a deep run. Their tactical flexibility and strong preparation suggest a team ready to compete with the best.
Fan Zone
Did you know? If Congo reaches the semi-finals this year, it will mark their best-ever performance in CHAN history.