Zanzibar drama, coaching debut, and a last-gasp equaliser — welcome to CHAN 2024.

Kwesi Appiah’s return to the African stage took off with fireworks as his Sudanese side battled to a 1-1 draw with Congo in their Group D opener at the CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024.

On his CHAN debut, the former Black Stars boss — who has led Ghana at the World Cup and AFCON — watched his team dominate early phases at the Amaan Stadium, taking the lead through Musa Hussien in the 29th minute. After a sharp rebound fell kindly from a parried shot, Hussien pounced and made no mistake from close range.

Sudan looked sharp and well-drilled, especially in midfield where Abdel Raouf Yagoub bossed the tempo, and Salah Adil and Mazin Simbo caused chaos from set-pieces. They nearly sealed it late, but Congo goalkeeper Ulrich Samba produced a stunning injury-time save to deny Simbo.

However, heartbreak struck in the 96th minute when Congo substitute Carly Ekongo bundled home an equaliser from a chaotic goalmouth scramble — silencing what had been a commanding Sudanese display.

Appiah, though denied a debut win, was proud of his team’s discipline and resilience, hailing the performance as a solid foundation for the journey ahead.

Sudan’s search for a CHAN victory in open play continues, but the signs under Appiah’s leadership are promising as they gear up to face Nigeria next. For Congo, a showdown with defending champions Senegal looms large.