Tanzania’s Taifa Stars have booked a historic place in the quarterfinals of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) for the first time, securing a 2–1 win over Madagascar in their final Group B match at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam on Saturday.
Playing before home fans, the hosts made a strong start when in-form striker Clement Mzize opened the scoring in the 13th minute.
Mzize doubled the lead just seven minutes later, capitalising on sustained pressure to give Tanzania a commanding position.
Madagascar pulled a goal back in the 34th minute through Nantenaina Razafimahatana, but the first half ended with Taifa Stars leading 2–1.
The second half was fiercely contested, with both teams battling to create clear chances. However, Tanzania’s disciplined defence and controlled tempo saw them preserve their advantage until the final whistle.
With the result, Tanzania finished the group stage with a perfect record three wins from three matches collecting nine points to top Group B. In the group’s earlier match, Mauritania edged the Central African Republic 1–0.
Tanzania starting XI: Yakoub Selemani, Abdurazak Hamza, Ibrahim Abdula, Dickson Job, Feisal Salum, Abdul Suleiman, Mohamed Hussein, Shomari Kapombe, Mudathiri Yahya, Clement Mzize.
Madagascar starting XI: Ramandimbisoa Michel, Nantenaina Elysee, Hajatiana Ratsimbazafy, Nanteniana Mika, Nomena Rafanomezantsoa, Jean Luc, Bono Stephanot, Toky Rakotondraibe, Radon Niaina, Mamisoa Rakotoso.