As East Africa hosts CHAN 2024, we journey through history to honour the icons who shaped the tournament.

Since its inception in 2009, the African Nations Championship (CHAN) has become more than just a football tournament — it’s a celebration of raw, homegrown talent. Designed exclusively for players active in domestic African leagues, CHAN has evolved into a launchpad for stardom, where unknown heroes rise to the occasion and leave an indelible mark.

With the 2024 edition — PAMOJA 2024 — kicking off across Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, it’s the perfect time to turn the pages back and celebrate the seven exceptional players who were crowned Best Player of the Tournament in previous editions. These men didn’t just perform — they defined their eras and earned their rightful place in CHAN’s Hall of Fame.

2009 – Tresor Mputu Mabi (DR Congo)

The Pioneer Magician

CHAN’s maiden MVP set the tone for greatness. Mputu, with his masterful vision and flair, orchestrated DR Congo’s march to the title in Côte d’Ivoire. His leadership and brilliance turned heads across Africa and inspired a generation.

2011 – Zouheir Dhaouadi (Tunisia)

The Creative General

In Sudan, Dhaouadi combined elegance with efficiency. His intelligent play and goalscoring prowess propelled Tunisia to their first CHAN trophy. As joint top scorer, he proved that midfield maestros could also be match-winners.

2014 – Ejike Uzoenyi (Nigeria)

The Lightning Winger

South Africa witnessed a whirlwind named Uzoenyi. With pace, precision, and relentless energy, the Nigerian winger dazzled fans and scouts alike. His CHAN heroics earned him a surprise ticket to the 2014 FIFA World Cup — proof of CHAN’s power to elevate.

2016 – Meshack Elia (DR Congo)

The Finisher with Flair

In Rwanda, Elia’s feet did the talking — and defenders had no answers. His dazzling runs and lethal finishing brought DR Congo their second CHAN crown, etching his name beside Mputu in the country’s football folklore.

2018 – Ayoub El Kaabi (Morocco)

The Goal Machine

CHAN 2018 belonged to one man: Ayoub El Kaabi. The Moroccan striker tore through defenses with nine goals, including a hat-trick against Guinea. On home soil, he delivered silverware — and a legacy.

2020 – Soufiane Rahimi (Morocco)

The Architect of Attack

Rahimi stepped into the spotlight as Morocco went back-to-back. With five goals and a creative spark, he orchestrated Morocco’s offense with poise. His name became synonymous with technical class and finishing instinct.

2022 – Houssem Eddine Mrezigue (Algeria)

The Midfield Maestro

Even without a title, Mrezigue was unforgettable. In Algeria’s near-triumph, he stood tall with calm authority, controlling games with intelligence and maturity. His performances earned him a deserved place among CHAN royalty.

As the sun rises on CHAN 2024, the stage is once again set for a new hero to emerge. The stadiums of Nairobi, Kampala, and Dar es Salaam will soon echo with the roar of fans and the birth of a new legend.

Who will join the Hall of Fame next?