Tanzania’s national team made a strong statement in the opening match of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), securing a 2-0 victory over Burkina Faso at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam on today
The highly anticipated clash marked the official kickoff of the tournament, with thousands of fans turning out to witness the Taifa Stars begin their campaign on home soil.
The first half saw both teams play cautiously, focusing on protecting their goal areas. While chances were few and far between, Tanzania capitalized on a decisive moment in added time.
In the 45+3rd minute, forward Abdul ‘Sopu’ Selemani calmly converted a penalty to hand the hosts a 1-0 lead heading into the break.
Burkina Faso came out with renewed determination in the second half, pressing for an equalizer. However, Tanzania’s defense remained solid, absorbing pressure and looking for counter-attacking opportunities.
The home side’s persistence paid off in the 74th minute when defender Mohammed Hussein ‘Tshabalala’ Zimbwe Jr.
found the back of the net with a well taken strike, doubling Tanzania’s advantage and effectively putting the result beyond doubt.
The two goal cushion held until the final whistle, handing Tanzania a crucial three points and a morale-boosting start to their CHAN 2024 journey.
The result not only lifts the Taifa Stars to the top of their group but also boosts the nation’s hopes of making a deep run in the tournament, which features national teams composed of players active in their respective domestic leagues.