Senegal Crowned AFCON U-17 Champions After Nail-biting Final Against Tanzania
The losing side left the tournament as inspiring finalists, having pushed the champions to the very edge, writes Gazette's Annet Mugabo.
The Senegal national under-17 football team defeated their Tanzanian counterpart 4–2 on penalties after a tense 1–1 draw in normal time, claiming their second title in the history of the Africa U-17 Cup of Nations.
Senegal arrived for the final of the tournament at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium at as favorites, but it was Tanzania who shocked the stadium first.
In the 7th minute, Hamisi Chenga produced a composed finish to give Tanzania a stunning 1–0 lead, silencing the crowd and disrupting the rhythm of the game.
Tanzania continued to resist Senegal’s pressure with remarkable discipline. Their goalkeeper Haji Abdalah delivered a standout moment in the 37th minute with a brilliant save to preserve the lead.
Senegal nearly equalised before halftime, but a missed chance and an injury stoppage ensured Tanzania went into the break ahead.
The second half brought relentless pressure from Senegal, and in the 63rd minute, substitute Ibrahim Dione changed everything.
Coming off the bench, he scored the equaliser to make it 1–1 and shift momentum firmly in Senegal’s favor.
From that point, Senegal controlled possession while Tanzania defended bravely and looked for counterattacks.
A dangerous free-kick in the 78th minute tested Tanzania’s resilience, but it was cleared. Deep into stoppage time, Tanzania appealed for a penalty, but after a VAR review, the decision was overturned.
Penalties
After 90 minutes, the match remained level at 1–1, sending the final to penalties. And Senegal stepped up first and held their nerve throughout the shootout.
Faye scored the opening penalty, while Lugupa kept Tanzania level. Mbegelendi and Emile Saido both converted their second penalties for their respective teams.
The turning point came when Ibrahim Dione confidently scored Senegal’s third penalty. Idrissa Kilendemo then missed for Tanzania, putting Senegal in control.
Cheikh Thior extended Senegal’s advantage with a composed finish, before Hussein Mbegu also missed for Tanzania.
With that final kick, Senegal were crowned champions once again, lifting their second AFCON U17 title and becoming only the sixth nation to win the competition twice.
Individual awards also highlighted the brilliance of the tournament’s standout performers.
Senegal’s goalkeeper Sarr was named Goalkeeper of the Tournament for his consistent performances and composure under pressure throughout the competition.
Tanzania’s Dismas, just 14 years old, emerged as the Top Scorer of the Tournament with three goals, showcasing remarkable talent beyond his years.
Issa Chole was named Player of the Tournament, recognized for his influence and creativity across the tournament.
In addition, Tanzania were awarded the Fair Play Team of the Tournament, reflecting their discipline, sportsmanship, and respectful conduct throughout their historic run to the final.
Tanzania left the tournament as inspiring finalists, having pushed the champions to the very edge in a performance full of courage and belief.
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