Senegal Clinch Second U-17 AFCON Title After Penalty Shootout Victory Over Tanzania
Senegal national under-17 football team have been crowned champions of the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2026, defeating Tanzania 4-2 on penalties after a thrilling 1-1 draw in the final.
The victory secured Senegal's second continental U-17 title and capped another impressive campaign for the Young Lions of Teranga, who displayed remarkable composure under pressure throughout the knockout stages.
Tanzania made the brighter start at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium, taking the lead in the seventh minute through Hamis Chenga. The midfielder capitalized on space in the Senegalese half before firing a low effort beyond the goalkeeper to hand the Serengeti Boys an early advantage.
Senegal responded with sustained attacking pressure but found Tanzania's disciplined defence difficult to break down. Goalkeeper Haji Abdullahi also produced several important saves, including denying Ibrahima Sow's header, to preserve his side's lead before the break.
The defending champions emerged stronger after halftime and were eventually rewarded in the 64th minute. A dangerous free-kick from Commissaire Faye was spilled by the Tanzanian goalkeeper, allowing Ibrahima Dione to react quickest and score the crucial equaliser.
Both teams continued to search for a winner, but neither could find the decisive goal during regulation time. Tanzania were awarded a late VAR review following a penalty appeal, but the referee's decision stood, sending the final to a penalty shootout.
Senegal once again showed their confidence from the spot, with Faye, Sadio, Dione and Thior all converting their penalties. Tanzania scored through Usuph and Mbegelendi, but misses from Kilendemo and Mbegu handed Senegal a 4-2 victory and the championship.
Coach Lamine Sané guided his side through a demanding tournament that included knockout victories over Mali and hosts Morocco before lifting the trophy. The triumph highlights Senegal's continued investment in youth football development and reinforces the country's growing reputation on the African football stage.
Although Tanzania fell short in the final, the Serengeti Boys produced their best-ever campaign at the competition. Their run to the final also secured qualification for the FIFA U-17 World Cup, marking a historic milestone for youth football in the East African nation.