Tanzania triumphed in the CECAFA Zonal qualifiers for the 2026 TotalEnergies U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after defeating Uganda 3-2 in a thrilling final on December 2, 2025, at the Abebe Bikila Stadium in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
This victory was especially sweet for Tanzania, as it avenged their loss to Uganda in the previous year’s final.
The match started with early drama as Tanzania took the lead in the 6th minute. Razaki Mbegelendi capitalized on a defensive error, intercepting a back-pass from Uganda’s Shakur Ngobi to score past goalkeeper Ashraf Lukyamuzi.
Uganda responded quickly, leveling the score in the 13th minute through Thomas Ogena, who finished from close range after a well-placed pass.
However, Tanzania regained the lead in the 30th minute thanks to another defensive lapse, with Mbegelendi scoring his second goal. Just before halftime, Tanzania added a third, with Luqman Mbalasalu netting in the 45th minute.
In the second half, Uganda pushed forward with renewed energy, but they were unable to break through.
Fahad Ismail had a chance to bring Uganda back into the game, but his penalty was saved by Tanzanian goalkeeper Haji Abdallah in the 56th minute.
Despite continued efforts, Uganda’s only consolation came in stoppage time when Brian Olwa scored their second goal.
Tanzania’s coach, Elieneza Nicolaus Nsanganzelu, expressed his pride, saying, “This is a very sweet win, and the players have worked hard to finish the tournament with six wins.”
Meanwhile, Ethiopia secured third place, defeating Kenya 3-0 to also qualify for the 2026 AFCON U-17 in Morocco.
The final was attended by dignitaries including the Acting CECAFA President and various football officials from across the region.
