Algiers, 13 January 2023 (TDI): The African Nations Championship is the most prestigious football competition in the continent. It is organized by the Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF), which features African national teams.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) released the schedule for the CHAN 2022 which will take place in Algeria from 13 January to 4 February 2023.
The Nelson Mandela Stadium
A day before the first game, Algerian President, Abdelmadjid Tebboune officially inaugurated the newly constructed Nelson Mandela Stadium. Gianni Infantino, the FIFA President, was also present at the stadium.
Tebboune had fruitful discussions with him. The Nelson Mandela stadium is an architectural masterpiece. It is a 40,000-seater stadium.
On 13 January, it will host the first game between Algeria and Libya. It will also provide the venue for the final on 4 February.
Morocco withdraws from African Nations Championship
Morocco won’t participate in this competition. The Moroccan football federation stated that the Algerian government rejected their request for the team to travel there straight on the country’s official airline. Algiers’ leadership severed diplomatic ties with Rabat in 2021.
History of Algeria- Morocco Relations
Algeria accused Morocco of interfering in its internal affairs in 2021, which led to a deterioration in their relationship. One major factor in the conflict between the two nations is the termination of a 30-year ceasefire in the Sahara.
Morocco made history last month by becoming the first African-Arab team to reach the semi-finals of the FIFA World Cup 2022.
The nation tied with the Democratic Republic of the Congo for most championship victories. It has won the past two editions of the CHAN.
The conception of the Championship
The idea of this tournament came up on 11 September 2007 by a CAF Executive Committee in Johannesburg, South Africa.
The objective was to provide local players with opportunities to represent their countries and market their home leagues internationally.
Impact of CHAN 2022
Football is an essential part of African culture. This tournament is a time for celebration and unity for many Africans who are now dealing with security, economic, and political challenges.
The previous editions of the championship played a vital role in highlighting prevalent issues on the continent, socially and culturally.
Additionally, it has drawn global concentration and awareness to other problems that damage the continent in terms of civil wars, other dictatorships, and insurgencies.
Throughout the tournament, issues with animal poaching and species threats came to the attention of a global audience by supporting humanitarian organizations. The competition offered assistance in preventing extinction threats.
It also supported the struggle against poverty in African countries. The possibility of an economic boost for companies arises from the expectation that thousands of fans will travel to Algeria to support their national teams from all over the continent.
Other artists are thrilled because they anticipate the arrival of tourists. It will generate revenue from tourism, hospitality, entertainment, and investments in the areas around the venues.
