Senegal Edge Tanzania on Penalties To Secure Second U-17 AFCON Title

Senegal Edge Tanzania on Penalties To Secure Second U-17 AFCON Title

By Niyi Busari 

 Senegal were crowned champions of the TotalEnergies CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2026 after defeating Tanzania 4-2 on penalties following a thrilling 1-1 draw in Tuesday’s final at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The Young Lions of Teranga demonstrated remarkable resilience, recovering from an early setback before prevailing in a tense penalty shootout to secure their second continental title at U-17 level.

Tanzania made a dream start to the final when Hamis Chenga opened the scoring in the seventh minute. The midfielder won possession in the centre of the pitch, drove forward and unleashed a powerful effort from the edge of the penalty area that beat the Senegal goalkeeper and gave the Serengeti Boys a surprise early lead.

The goal energized Tanzania, who maintained their composure and defensive discipline against a Senegalese side that gradually grew into the contest. Senegal responded with sustained pressure, creating several opportunities through wide attacks and set pieces, but Tanzania goalkeeper Haji Abdullahi produced a series of important saves to preserve his side’s advantage before halftime.

Senegal emerged from the break with renewed urgency, dominating possession and pushing Tanzania deeper into their own half. Their persistence was eventually rewarded in the 64th minute when Souleymane Commissaire Faye’s dangerous free-kick was spilled by Abdullahi, allowing Ibrahima Dione to react quickest and convert the rebound from close range.

The equaliser shifted momentum in Senegal’s favour, but Tanzania remained resolute, frustrating repeated attacks while continuing to threaten on the counterattack. Both teams searched for a decisive goal in the closing stages, yet neither could find a breakthrough.

A dramatic moment arrived in stoppage time when Tanzania appealed for a penalty following a challenge inside the area. However, after a VAR review, the referee waved away the claims, sending the final to a penalty shootout.

In the shootout, Senegal displayed composure and clinical finishing. Souleymane Commissaire Faye, Sadio, Ibrahima Dione and Thior all converted their spot-kicks, while Tanzania scored through Usuph and Mbegelendi. Missed attempts from Kilendemo and Mbegu ultimately proved costly for the East Africans.

The victory capped an impressive tournament for Senegal, who navigated a challenging knockout path that included victories over Mali and hosts Morocco before overcoming Tanzania in the final.

For coach Lamine Sané and his players, the triumph highlighted the strength of Senegal’s youth football development programme, which continues to produce competitive teams capable of succeeding on the continental stage.

Despite the defeat, Tanzania leave Morocco with their heads held high after an outstanding campaign. The Serengeti Boys reached the final of the competition for the first time in their history, qualified for the FIFA U-17 World Cup and showcased the growing quality of East African football.

While Tanzania earned widespread admiration for their historic run, the final ultimately belonged to Senegal, whose determination, discipline and nerve under pressure delivered the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2026 title.Suggested Standfirst (Subtitle)

Senegal recovered from an early deficit before defeating Tanzania 4-2 on penalties in Rabat to claim their second TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations title and cap a resilient tournament campaign.