CHAN 2024: Tanzania and Burkina Faso Secure Important Wins
The 2024 TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship was heated up as hosts Tanzania and Burkina Faso delivered standout performances to strengthen their positions in the tournament. In a night filled with excitement and tense moments, Tanzania secured a thrilling late victory over Mauritania, while Burkina Faso showcased their attacking flair in a high-scoring encounter against debutants Central African Republic (CAR).
Kapombe Strikes Late as Tanzania See Off Mauritania
In a hard-fought match at the Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium, Tanzania edged past Mauritania 1-0, thanks to a dramatic last-minute goal from veteran defender Shomari Kapombe. The win marked Tanzania’s second consecutive victory in Group B, solidifying their position at the top of the table.
The clash remained tense until the 89th minute when Kapombe latched onto a clever through ball from Iddy Nado and slotted it past Mauritania’s goalkeeper Abderrahmane Sarr, sending the home crowd into jubilation. With this win, Tanzania is now poised for a potential quarter-final spot.
Mauritania, however, faced a bitter disappointment, remaining winless and needing a victory in their final group match against Burkina Faso to keep their hopes alive.
Burkina Faso Gallop Past Debutants CAR in Six-Goal CHAN Clash
Earlier in the day, Burkina Faso revived their campaign with an impressive 4-2 victory over the Central African Republic. After a shaky start to the tournament, the Stallions bounced back with a commanding second-half display.
Burkina Faso took the lead through Papus Ouattara, only for CAR to level the match with a stunning free-kick from Sydney Tchibinda. Undeterred, Burkina Faso regained control in the second half, converting two penalties scored by Abdoul Abass Guiro and captain Patrick Malo, with Abdoul Baguian adding a fourth goal to seal the win.
The victory lifts Burkina Faso to three points in Group B, keeping their qualification hopes alive as they prepare for a crucial match against Mauritania. Despite the loss, CAR’s debut performance showed promise, indicating they are ready to compete on the continental stage.
