Tanzania dashes Harambee Stars’ hopes in thrilling U-17 AFCON semi-final
The match at Abebe Bikila Stadium began dramatically when Kenya won a penalty just ten minutes in, following a challenge by Tanzanian goalkeeper Haji Ally Abdallah on Derrick Muchiti Obote
Tanzania became the first nation from the CECAFA region to secure a berth at the CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2026 after a 3–1 victory over Kenya’s Harambee Stars in Sunday’s semi-final clash in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
The match at Abebe Bikila Stadium began dramatically when Kenya won a penalty just ten minutes in, following a challenge by Tanzanian goalkeeper Haji Ally Abdallah on Derrick Muchiti Obote. However, Abdallah redeemed himself almost immediately, pulling off a crucial save to deny Saidi Makangila, Derrick Muchiti Obote and lifting the spirits of the fans in attendance.
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Tanzania, unbeaten through the group stage, responded with purpose. Their pressure paid off in the 19th minute when defender Nhingo Juma Luzelenga rose highest to head home the opener.
Momentum stayed with the young Tanzanians, and after half an hour, Luqman Ally Mbabasalu doubled the lead, finishing calmly in a one-on-one situation.
Kenya returned for the second half, determined to mount a comeback, with captain Yusuf Ahmed Mohamed leading the push forward. Their efforts were rewarded in the 84th minute when substitute Armstrong Omondi unleashed a powerful strike from outside the area to pull a goal back.
Despite Kenya’s late surge, Tanzania preserved their advantage with disciplined defending.
Deep into added time, substitute Soann Shabani sealed the win with a third goal, sparking jubilant celebrations as referee Amro Alsayed Mohammed of Sudan blew for full-time.
“I am happy that our first mission, which was to qualify for the AFCON U-17, has been achieved. Now our next mission will be to win the trophy,” said a delighted Tanzanian head coach Elienza Nicolaus Nsanganzelu.
The second semi-final, featuring hosts Ethiopia against defending champions Uganda, is scheduled to take place later at the same venue.
The two finalists and the winner of the bronze-medal match will claim the remaining CECAFA slots for the CAF U-17 AFCON 2026.
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