Tanzania has emerged as the leader of Group B, finishing the group stage unbeaten with 10 points and securing an early spot in the quarterfinals.
In their final group-stage match, the Taifa Stars faced the Central African Republic at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam.
Tanzania’s disciplined performance ensured they remained unbeaten throughout the tournament.
Group B’s other contender, Madagascar, defeated Mauritania, leaving both teams with seven points each. Madagascar’s progression was determined by goal difference.
The first half saw a tightly contested battle, with neither side able to break the deadlock, and the teams went into halftime scoreless.
Both coaching staffs used the break to make tactical adjustments aimed at improving their attacking efficiency.
Despite continued efforts from both sides in the second half, the match ended in a goalless draw. Over four group-stage games, Tanzania scored five goals, conceded just one, and recorded one draw.
Speaking after the match, Feisal Salum, popularly known as ‘Feitoto,’ described the game as challenging.
“The opponents came well-prepared with a strategic plan that made scoring difficult. They respected us, but in the end, we shared the points,” he said.
Feitoto added, “We accept the result and now fully focus on the quarterfinals, where the real challenge begins.”
Tanzania’s unbeaten run in the group stage underlines their strong preparation and determination as they set their sights on the knockout rounds.