Congo disqualified from CHAN for fielding ineligible player, with Equatorial Guinea now replacing them in Group D for the tournament
Congo has been disqualified from the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Disciplinary Board ruled that they fielded an ineligible player in their last match against Equatorial Guinea.
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The match, which was part of the qualifying process for the tournament, has now been declared forfeited, with Equatorial Guinea replacing Congo in Group D.
The player at the centre of the controversy is Mankou Nguembete Japhet Eloi. It was revealed that Eloi had transferred from his local club in Congo to Leones Vegetarianos in Equatorial Guinea prior to the match.
However, Congo failed to present the necessary valid national licenses, a crucial requirement for player eligibility.
As a result of the infraction, the Congo Football Federation has also been slapped with a $10,000 fine, which must be paid within 69 days.
This decision underscores CAF’s commitment to upholding the integrity of the competition and ensuring all participating teams adhere to the regulations.
The disqualification comes as a significant blow to Congo’s ambitions in the African Nations Championship, which is set to take place in August 2025.
With Equatorial Guinea now taking their place in Group D, the dynamics of the tournament will shift as the Super Eagles and other teams face new challenges in the group stage.
This development also highlights the importance of adhering to CAF’s strict rules regarding player eligibility and transfers, particularly in international competitions.
