The Republic of Congo’s Red Devils return to the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 with renewed ambition, aiming to surpass their previous quarter-final finishes in 2018 and 2020.
This year marks Congo’s fifth appearance in the tournament, following campaigns in 2014, 2018, 2020, and 2022.
Led by experienced tactician Barthélémy Ngatsono, Congo’s approach is one of structure, discipline, and a strong domestic base. Ngatsono, who previously managed the national team at senior level, has worked to build a cohesive unit by blending players from the top sides in the Congolese Ligue 1 such as AS Otohô, Diables Noirs, and Étoile du Congo. His familiarity with the local football scene and calm leadership could prove crucial in a tightly contested Group D.
As part of their preparation, the team camped at their traditional base — Massamba-Débat Stadium ,where they enjoyed morale-boosting wins in friendlies against local outfits including AS Otohô, AS Vegas, and Football Club Racing, scoring freely in comfortable 5–0 and 4–0 victories.
Official CHAN squad:
Goalkeepers:
Ulrich Samba (AS Otohô), Chelcy Bonazebi (Diables Noirs), Dhody Guelor Bissila (Inter Club)
Defenders:
Pachoud De Nzingo (AS Cheminots), Van Igor Boukaka (JS Talangaï), Pedro Peya (AS Otohô), Béranger Richy Itoua (Diables Noirs), Charles Atipo Konde (CARA Brazzaville), Vicalor Odzalambaye (AS Cheminots), Prince Mouandza (AS Otohô), Mapata Jhon (AS Ponténégrine), Aurier Kapaya (Inter Club)
Midfielders:
Brudet Vigel Okana (AS Otohô), Venold Dzaba (CARA Brazzaville), Hergie Mossala (Étoile du Congo), Gossim Elenga (JS Talangaï), Grace NSEMI (Inter Club), Dericka Osseby (Diables Noirs), Debon Gédéon Nongo (AS Cheminots)
Forwards:
Dechan Moussavou (AS Otohô), Elie Ondzouono (AS Ponténégrine), Japhet Eloi Mankou (Étoile du Congo), Wilfrid Nkaya (Diables Noirs), Carly Ekongo (Inter Club), Grace Mavoungou (JS Talangaï), Chadrack Ngantsui (AS Cheminots)
Star Watch
Pedro Peya (AS Otohô, Defender): Calm and dominant, Peya is the defensive linchpin for Congo. His positioning and aerial prowess make him critical in both defense and set-piece situations.
Brudet Vigel Okana (AS Otohô, Midfielder): The heartbeat of the Red Devils’ midfield, Okana is known for his control, vision, and tempo-setting ability. He will play a crucial role in transitioning play from defense to attack.
Japhet Eloi Mankou (Étoile du Congo, Forward): After netting 14 goals in the 2025 league season, Mankou arrives at CHAN in prime form. If Congo is to go deep into the tournament, his finishing will be vital.
Fixtures & Group Overview
Group D matches will take place in Zanzibar and Dar es Salaam, with Congo facing stiff competition from Sudan, Senegal, and Nigeria.
August 5: Sudan vs Congo — Amaan Stadium, Zanzibar
August 12: Senegal vs Congo — Amaan Stadium, Zanzibar
August 19: Nigeria vs Congo — Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, Dar es Salaam
With a blend of experience, tactical discipline, and individual flair, Congo enters CHAN 2024 hoping to finally convert past promise into a historic tournament run.
