Dar es Salaam. Since its launch in 2009, the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) has stood as more than just a competition.
It has served as a launchpad for local talent, a festival of raw footballing passion, and a tournament that brings African fans closer to their home-grown stars.
One of the rarest, most exciting moments in football is the hat-trick. And in CHAN history, such moments have been truly scarce.
In over 15 years of action, only three players have achieved the feat of scoring three goals in a single CHAN match.
As the 2024 edition of the tournament kicks off this weekend in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, the big question emerges again:
Can CHAN 2024 witness a fourth entry into this elite club of hat-trick heroes?
Given Singuluma: The Pioneer
The first name etched in the CHAN hat-trick history books is Given Singuluma of Zambia.
In the very first edition of the tournament in 2009, Singuluma announced himself in style, scoring a thunderous hat-trick against hosts Côte d’Ivoire.
His display of power, accuracy, and confidence in front of goal stunned fans and critics alike.
He would go on to score five goals in total, finishing as the tournament’s top scorer and helping Zambia secure a third-place finish.
For Zambians, Singuluma became a household name a symbol of national pride and local footballing excellence.
Chisom Chikatara: The Super Sub Sensation
Fast forward to 2016, and CHAN saw another unforgettable performance. This time it was Chisom Chikatara from Nigeria who lit up the stadiums in Rwanda.
Nicknamed “The Kolanut Boy”, the Abia Warriors forward came off the bench to deliver a breathtaking second-half hat-trick in a 4-1 win over Niger.
His footwork, agility, and natural poacher instincts electrified the Super Eagles’ faithful, even though Nigeria’s campaign ended earlier than expected.
Despite Nigeria falling short, Chikatara’s name was on everyone’s lips. Scouts across Africa and beyond began to take notice.
Ayoub El Kaabi: The Icon
Then came Ayoub El Kaabi in 2018 a striker whose CHAN journey didn’t just captivate fans; it redefined the tournament’s standards.
El Kaabi’s performance was simply legendary. Scoring eight goals in five matches, including a majestic hat-trick against Guinea, he single-handedly led Morocco to their first-ever CHAN title.
His hat-trick was a masterclass timed runs, ruthless finishes, and an unstoppable presence in the box. For El Kaabi, CHAN wasn’t just a tournament; it was a springboard.
“It was CHAN that gave me the biggest spotlight of my life. That tournament changed my career forever,” El Kaabi later recalled.
His success led to a move to Europe and a blossoming international career, proving just how transformative CHAN can be.
CHAN 2024: Who’s next in line?
Now, with CHAN 2024 finally here, all eyes turn to the strikers. Who will step forward and etch their name in the tournament’s folklore?
Nineteen African nations are sending their finest home-based talents to compete.
This year’s tournament, co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, marks the first time East Africa hosts this prestigious event.
The region’s passion for football and growing talent base sets the stage for something special.
Contenders to Watch
Senegal, the defending champions, come in with confidence and tactical discipline. Their squad includes forwards with both flair and finishing power.
Uganda, playing on home soil, will bank on massive crowd support.
Their talisman Yunus Sentamu, a proven local finisher, could be the catalyst for something historic.
Nigeria, still chasing their first CHAN title, enter the tournament with determination and attacking intent.
They’re not just looking to win—they want to make a statement.
Morocco, the defending kings of CHAN glory, are hungry to reassert dominance and build on their golden legacy created by El Kaabi.
Other nations like Zambia, DR Congo, Ghana, and Angola are not to be counted out.
All have rich footballing cultures and strikers eager to make history.
Why Hat-Tricks Matter in CHAN
A hat-trick isn’t just about numbers. In CHAN, it’s a career-altering performance.
Just ask Singuluma, Chikatara, or El Kaabi these moments transformed their trajectories and opened new chapters in their lives.
