The tears and cheers flowed in equal measure in Rabat as Senegal were crowned champions of the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations after defeating Tanzania 4-2 on penalties following a gripping 1-1 draw, ending a tournament that showcased the future of African football.
For much of the evening, it looked as though Tanzania’s remarkable journey would have a dream ending. The Serengeti Boys stunned the favourites after just seven minutes when Hamis Chenga won possession in midfield, surged forward and fired beyond the Senegal goalkeeper to spark wild celebrations among the East African supporters.
The early goal rewarded Tanzania’s fearless approach. Coach Elieneza Nsanganzelu’s side had already overcome Algeria and Egypt through penalty shootouts during the knockout rounds, and they once again displayed the discipline and organisation that made them one of the stories of the tournament.
Senegal, however, have built a reputation for thriving under pressure. The Young Lions of Teranga gradually took control of possession and territory, forcing Tanzania deeper into their own half as the match wore on.
Their persistence finally paid off in the 64th minute. A dangerous free-kick from Souleymane Commissaire Faye slipped through the grasp of goalkeeper Haji Abdullahi, and Ibrahima Dione reacted quickest to tap home the equaliser.
The goal shifted momentum. Senegal looked stronger in the closing stages, but Tanzania refused to surrender. The final remained tense until the last whistle, with a late Tanzanian penalty appeal rejected after a VAR review.
That decision sent the match to penalties, where Senegal’s experience proved decisive.
Faye, Sadio, Dione and Thior all converted calmly. Tanzania scored twice but missed two crucial efforts, allowing Senegal to celebrate a second continental title at this level and further cement their status as one of Africa’s leading youth football nations.
While Senegal lifted the trophy, Tanzania left Morocco with their heads held high. Their first-ever appearance in a CAF U-17 final marked a breakthrough moment for East African football and secured qualification for the FIFA U-17 World Cup.
Individual honours also reflected Tanzania’s outstanding campaign. Midfielder Issa Mussa Chole was named Player of the Tournament after controlling games with maturity beyond his years. His influence helped Tanzania reach heights few expected before the competition began.
Forward Dismas Shida Athanasi added another achievement by claiming the Golden Boot with three goals. At just 14 years old, he emerged as one of the tournament’s brightest attacking talents.
Senegal also celebrated individual excellence. Captain Assane Sarr earned the Best Goalkeeper award after producing key saves throughout the competition and playing a decisive role in three penalty shootouts.
In the end, the trophy belonged to Senegal. Yet Morocco 2026 will be remembered not only for the champions, but also for a Tanzanian generation that announced itself to Africa and gave its nation reason to dream.
