DAR ES SALAAM, July 29 -- WALKING around the iconic Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, the air is already thick with anticipation.

Music thumps from the loudspeakers, echoing across the stadium as sound checks bounce off the stands. Crews move briskly, billboards light up the venue with bold names and faces and three flags flutter proudly above it all of the hosts at the entrance. The air hums with energy; the scene is set for an unforgettable night.

The pitch itself is dressed in the vibrant colours of the Tanzanian national flag green, yellow, black and blue a proud canvas for the football spectacle to come.

With only days remaining before the opening of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), final preparations have been completed, accor...