Tanzania launched their CHAN PAMOJA 2024 campaign in emphatic fashion with a convincing 2-0 win over Burkina Faso in their Group B opener at the Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium. The victory marks a historic moment for the Taifa Stars as it is their first-ever opening-match win in CHAN history, having lost both their debut fixtures in previous editions.
Backed by a lively and energetic home crowd, the Taifa Stars took control of the game early, applying consistent pressure that paid off just before halftime. Forward Clement Mzize was brought down in the penalty area by Burkina Faso defender Frank Tologo, earning a spot-kick in first-half stoppage time. Abdul Sopu stepped up and calmly converted the penalty, sending the home side into the break with a deserved 1-0 lead.
Burkina Faso made three substitutions at halftime in a bid to shift the game’s momentum, but it was Tanzania who emerged stronger. The home side maintained their attacking rhythm and tactical discipline, continuing to challenge the visitors’ backline with wave after wave of pressure.
Their persistence was rewarded in the 71st minute when defender Mohamed Hussein latched onto a superb cross from Mudathir Yahya. Rising above the defense, Hussein powered a precise header into the net, doubling Tanzania’s lead and sparking wild celebrations in the stands.
Although Burkina Faso launched a series of attacks in the final minutes through efforts by Tertius Bagré and Papus Ouattara, their finishing lacked precision. The Taifa Stars’ defense held firm, keeping a clean sheet and sealing an important three points.
The result gives Tanzania a strong start in what is shaping up to be a tightly contested Group B, which also features Madagascar, Mauritania, and the Central African Republic. For Burkina Faso, the search for a first-ever opening-day CHAN win continues, and the pressure now mounts as they look to revive their tournament hopes.
With momentum on their side, Tanzania will look to build on this impressive victory as they aim for a deep run in the 2024 CHAN tournament.
