CECAFA Senior Challenge Cup 2021/22

The CECAFA Senior Challenge Cup stands as the premier international football tournament for senior men's national teams in the East and Central African region. Organised by the Council for East and Central Africa Football Associations (CECAFA), it holds the distinction of being the oldest tournament on the continent. The competition traces its origins to 1926, when it was established as the Gossage Cup, sponsored by the British soap manufacturer Gossage, which was owned by Lever Brothers. It underwent a name change to the East and Central African Senior Challenge Cup in 1967 before adopting its present title in 1973, coinciding with the formal establishment of CECAFA as a regional body. While the CECAFA Kagame Cup serves as the primary club competition for the region, this tournament remains dedicated exclusively to national sides. The format generally involves eight to twelve teams split into groups, leading into knockout stages, although participation has fluctuated in recent years due to scheduling conflicts and financial constraints. Uganda holds the record for success, having claimed the trophy 40 times. Kenya follows with 21 victories, while Tanzania has secured nine titles. The most recent edition took place in 2019, hosted by Uganda, where they defeated Eritrea 3-0 in the final. The 2024 tournament was cancelled to allow players to focus on preparations for the CECAFA Kagame Cup and the Africa Nations Championship. As an invitational event for national teams, there is no system of promotion or relegation linked to the competition.