Tanzania's U-17 women’s national team, the Serengeti Girls, suffered a tough 3-0 defeat against Zambia in the first leg of the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup qualifiers.
The match took place at Azam Complex Stadium in Chamazi, Dar es Salaam.
Both teams started the game cautiously, focusing on defense to avoid conceding an early goal. Despite several attempts from both sides, the first half ended in a goalless draw, with neither team managing to break through.
The second half saw Zambia take control of the game. In the 65th minute, Grasce Phiri capitalized on a defensive lapse to put Zambia ahead.
The visitors continued their dominance, doubling their lead in the 80th minute. Mercy Chipasula sealed the victory in the 89th minute with a well-taken penalty, securing a commanding 3-0 win for Zambia.
With this result, Tanzania faces an uphill battle in the return leg, which will be played in Zambia. The Serengeti Girls will need a strong performance to overturn the deficit and keep their World Cup hopes alive.
Serengeti Girls (Tanzania):Mariam Manyerere, Melkia Juma, Ester Marwa, Lidya Kabambo, Mary Siyame, Winfrida Mathias, Yasinta Mitoga, Asha Ramadhani, Christer Bazil, Ferister Maliki, Winfrida John.
Zambia:Bukata Kakumbi, Nana Malanda, Precious Mwape, Lilian Mwenda, Mercy Chipasula, Ruth Mukoma, Natasha Nkaka, Taonga Kabanga, Lweedo Hanongo, Hellen Banda.