Senegal edge Tanzania on penalties to capture second U-17 AFCON crown

By Oluwatobiloba Zeal-Adepetu Kumoye 

 

  

Senegal underlined their growing dominance in African youth football by defeating Tanzania 4-2 on penalties to win the U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title on Tuesday night at the Stade Prince Moulay El Hassan.

The final ended 1-1 after regulation time, forcing the championship to be decided from the spot, where the Young Teranga Lions held their nerve to secure a second continental crown.

Tanzania made a dream start to the encounter, taking the lead in the seventh minute through forward Mihambo, who finished off a well-worked move after being set up by Mbalasalu.

Buoyed by the early breakthrough, the East Africans adopted a disciplined defensive approach, frustrating Senegal's attacking efforts and protecting their advantage until halftime.

Senegal emerged from the break with renewed purpose and gradually took control of the contest. Dominating possession with 52 percent of the ball and registering 17 shots compared to Tanzania's six, the defending champions intensified the pressure in search of an equaliser.

Their persistence paid off in the 64th minute when substitute Ibrahima Dione found the back of the net to restore parity and set up a tense finish.

Despite opportunities at both ends, neither side could find a winner during the remainder of the match, sending the final straight to penalties.

In the shootout, Senegal showed greater composure, converting four of their spot-kicks while Tanzania managed only two, sparking jubilant celebrations among the West Africans.

The triumph is another testament to Senegal's remarkable rise as a powerhouse in African youth football. 

Significant investments in grassroots development, youth academies and football infrastructure have transformed the nation into one of the continent's most successful talent factories over the past decade.

Senegal first announced themselves on the U-17 stage by winning the AFCON title in 2023 in Algeria, where they defeated Morocco 2-1 in the final to claim their maiden crown.

With victory over Tanzania, the Young Teranga Lions have now captured a second U-17 AFCON title and further cemented their status among Africa's elite youth teams. 

Senegal has featured in five editions of the tournament, 2011, 2019, 2023, 2025 and 2026, while also earning multiple appearances at the FIFA U-17 World Cup, reaching the Round of 16 in both 2019 and 2023.

The latest success reinforces Senegal's reputation as a nation whose commitment to youth development continues to yield impressive results on both the continental and global stage.