Tanzania's under-17 national team has made history by reaching the final of the 2026 U17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. In the semifinal held on May 28, 2026, in Casablanca, Tanzania defeated Senegal 2-1 to secure their first-ever appearance in the tournament's final.
The match saw Tanzania take an early lead through a goal from striker Juma Mwinyi in the 15th minute. Senegal equalized just before halftime with a header from defender Mamadou Diallo. However, Tanzania's captain, Abdul Karim, scored the winning goal in the 72nd minute with a powerful strike from outside the box.
This achievement marks a significant milestone for Tanzanian football, as the country had never advanced beyond the group stage in previous U17 AFCON tournaments. The team's success has been attributed to strong youth development programs and the leadership of coach Hemed Suleiman.
Tanzania will face either Mali or Ivory Coast in the final, scheduled for May 31, 2026, at the Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca. The winner will also qualify for the FIFA U17 World Cup later this year.
