Chad has announced its final 25-man squad for the upcoming friendly matches against Kenya, as both teams prepare for major continental competitions later this year. Leading the squad as captain is Ezechiel N’Douasse, the Persela Lamongan striker currently playing in Indonesia. The two matches are scheduled for June 7 and June 10, 2025, and will be played on neutral ground in Morocco. These friendlies will serve as a crucial test for both teams, providing an opportunity to evaluate their squad depth and tactical cohesion ahead of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) and other upcoming tournaments.
Chad’s national team, known as Les Sao, features a blend of home-based players and those competing in various leagues across Africa, Europe, and Asia. The inclusion of N’Douasse as captain adds valuable international experience and leadership, qualities essential for a squad preparing to compete at a higher level. His career abroad brings a seasoned perspective that is expected to benefit the team on and off the pitch.
Goalkeeping duties have been entrusted to three shot-stoppers: Adaossou Mathieu of Renaissance FC in Chad, Mbayossoum S Diallo from Club 15 d’Agosto in Equatorial Guinea, and Mbaynaïssem Jourdain, who plays for CSK Dushanbe in Tajikistan. This selection offers a mix of domestic and international experience in goal, ensuring a strong last line of defense.
In defense, the squad boasts a combination of Europe-based and local talents. France-based Ahmad Ngouyamsa, who plays for Rodez Aveyron FC, is expected to lead the defensive line alongside established local defenders such as Haroun Abakar and Noël Allaramadji, both from AS PSI. Other defenders include Wanré Dainkréo from Gazelle FA in Cameroon, Charles Tchouplalou who plays in South Africa, and Noubara Félix representing AS PSI in Chad.
The midfield is anchored by players who have experience in diverse footballing environments. Mahamat Thiam Maintah, from Spanish club CD Castuera, brings European experience, while Sindou Yeo, currently with Union Sportive d’Oujda in Morocco, offers a solid midfield presence. The midfield group also includes home-based players such as Youssouf Abderamane of Galactik FC and Abdoulaye Dafiné from Aiglons FC Ndjamena, alongside other talents like Allarabaye Yves of Foullah Ed FC in Chad, William Damba from Rail Club de Kadiogo in Burkina Faso, and Djoeta Frédéric from TP Elect Sport in Chad.
In attack, the team relies heavily on the leadership and skill of captain N’Douasse. The offensive line is complemented by the speed and finishing prowess of Ninga Casimir, who plays for Al Tadamon SC in Kuwait, and promising young forward Haroun Tchaouna from SSD Ferentillo Calcio in Italy. Additional attacking options include local talents Mahamat Abakar and Ali Mahamat, both of whom represent AS PSI, as well as Ahmat Youssouf from SC Beaucouzé in France, Adam Ahmat Moustapha of City Boys FC in Rwanda, and Madoua Tchiva from AS Coton Tchad.
These friendlies against the Harambee Stars will be closely watched by Kenyan fans who expect a competitive contest. Both teams are eager to use the matches to finalize preparations for the 2024 African Nations Championship, which is set to take place in August. For Chad, these games are a chance to test their full-strength lineup and build team chemistry.
Under the guidance of head coach Tahir Gardia, the squad is shaping up to present a balanced team with a mix of youthful energy and experienced players. The choice of Morocco as a neutral venue ensures that the matches will be played in a setting that minimizes home advantage and allows both teams to focus fully on their tactical and physical preparations.
As the countdown to the friendlies begins, both Chad and Kenya see this as an important stepping stone on their journey toward success in the continental arena. For Chad, led by the dynamic N’Douasse and supported by a solid core of domestic and international talent, these matches offer a valuable opportunity to sharpen their squad ahead of the competitive challenges that lie ahead.
