The road to AFCON U-17 glory often faces unexpected hurdles, as demonstrated by Tanzania’s impressive performance in the CECAFA qualifiers, where they managed to halt Uganda's advance — a stunning move that surprises many football enthusiasts. But here's where it gets controversial: can Tanzania truly claim dominance, or is their success a temporary blip amid a fiercely competitive tournament? Let's delve into the key highlights to better understand what transpired.
At the conclusion of the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) CECAFA qualifiers, two standout players—Luqman Mbalasalu from Tanzania and Dawit Kasaw Yirdaw from Ethiopia—earned joint recognition as top scorers. Both netted an impressive eight goals during the tournament, which concluded on Tuesday at Addis Ababa’s Abebe Bikila Stadium. These goals played a crucial role in their teams' performances, with Ethiopia clinching third place and also securing the Fair Play Award. Meanwhile, Tanzania’s Haji Abdallah, whose exceptional goalkeeping — including two penalty saves — earned him the Best Goalkeeper accolade, solidified Tanzania’s presence as a formidable contender.
The awards ceremony was graced by prominent football officials, with Isayas Jira—the President of the Ethiopian Football Federation and a member of CAF’s Executive Committee—presenting awards to the players. Similarly, Uganda’s captain Owen Mukisa was honored as the Best Player of the tournament, receiving his award from CAF’s acting president and the President of the Burundi Football Federation, Alexandre Muyenge. Additionally, Tanzania’s coach Elieneza Nicolaus Nsangazelu was recognized as the Best Coach, acknowledging his leadership and strategic prowess.
Awards Recap:
- Fair Play Award: Ethiopia
- Gold Medal (winners): Tanzania
- Silver Medal: Uganda
- Bronze Medal: Ethiopia
- Best Goalkeeper: Haji Abdallah (Tanzania)
- Top Goal Scorers: Luqman Mbalasalu (Tanzania), Dawit Kasaw Yirdaw (Ethiopia)
- Best Player: Owen Mukisa (Uganda)
- Best Coach: Elieneza Nicolaus Nsangazelu (Tanzania)
Moving forward, the highly anticipated final in the CECAFA zone pits Uganda against Tanzania — a rematch reminiscent of last year's 2024 final when Uganda narrowly defeated Tanzania 2-1 in Kampala. This year, Tanzania, having won all their matches in the group stage, will be eager to reverse their previous loss. Coach Nsangazelu emphasized the challenge ahead, stating, “Uganda is a strong team, and beating them twice in one tournament isn't easy. But our players are committed to executing our game plan and bringing the trophy home.” On the other side, Ugandan coach Kingston Laryea highlighted the importance of retaining their title, expressing confidence in his squad’s preparation to dominate the match.
The top scorer for Tanzania, Luqman Ally Mbalasalu, will lead their offensive efforts, supported by teammates like Thomas Ogema and Henry Muhoozi from Uganda who aim to make a significant impact. Notably, before the final, Ethiopia will face Kenya to determine the third-place finisher, a match crucial for securing qualification to the AFCON 2026 tournament.
A total of ten nations participated in the CECAFA qualifiers, including Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, Sudan, Burundi, and Djibouti. The tournament has been a fierce battleground for young talents, with several standout performers such as Luqman Mbalasalu from Tanzania and Dawit Kasaw Yirdaw from Ethiopia, each scoring seven goals, along with other prolific players like Thomas Ogema and Dismas Shida Athanasi.
In recent developments, Uganda Cubs also secured their spot at AFCON 2026 by decisively defeating Ethiopia 3-0 at Addis Ababa. The match showcased Uganda’s resilience, with goals from Lorian Lwesibawa and Owen Mukisa, reinforced by a late strike from substitute Soann Shabani. Uganda’s coach, Kingston Laryea, praised his team’s effort and expressed anticipation for the final against Tanzania, emphasizing that their mission to defend the title is well underway.
Further, it was Tanzania’s turn to cement their spot by beating Kenya 3-1 in the semi-finals — a victory that heralded their first qualification from the CECAFA zone for AFCON 2026. Tanzania’s goalkeeper Haji Ally Abdallah made key saves, including a crucial penalty, showcasing the unpredictability and drama typical of youth tournaments. The Tanzanian squad’s strategic attacking style and solid defense were instrumental in their success, with players like Luqman Ally Mbalasalu and Soann Shabani leading the charge.
So, as the tournament heats up with the final matches, one must ask: Will Tanzania sustain their form and claim the trophy, or will Uganda’s experience and previous victory give them the edge? Or could an underdog emerge from the pack? Share your thoughts and opinions below — should we see a new champion crowned, or does history favor Uganda’s continued supremacy?
