Rabat. Tanzania U17’s dream of being crowned African champions came to a heartbreaking end after they lost 4-2 on penalties to Senegal following a 1-1 draw in the final of the 2026 AFCON U17 tournament on Tuesday night, June 2, 2026.
Despite the defeat, the young Tanzanians left the competition with their heads held high, having produced one of the most impressive campaigns in the tournament and reached a historic final.
The Serengeti Boys made a dream start to the match, taking the lead in the seventh minute through Himid Mihambo, who calmly finished a well-worked move initiated by Lalika Mbalasalu.
The early goal gave Tanzania confidence and allowed them to dictate large spells of the first half, frustrating a Senegal side that struggled to create clear-cut opportunities.
Senegal, however, emerged from the break with renewed energy and gradually took control of proceedings, increasing the pressure on the Tanzanian defence in search of an equaliser.
Their persistence paid off in the 64th minute when Ibrahima Dione found the back of the net to level the score and reignite Senegal’s hopes of lifting the trophy.
With the scores level, both teams pushed for a winner, but strong defensive displays and disciplined goalkeeping ensured the contest remained deadlocked at 1-1 after 90 minutes.
The final was therefore decided by a penalty shoot-out, where Senegal held their nerve and converted all four of their spot-kicks.
Serigne Faye, Sadio E., Ibrahima Dione and Cheikh Thior all scored from the spot to guide the Young Teranga Lions to victory and secure the continental crown.
Tanzania converted through Yusuph E. and Mbegelendi R., but misses from Ismail Kilendemo and Mbegu H. ultimately proved costly.
The result handed Senegal a 4-2 shoot-out victory and confirmed them as the 2026 AFCON U17 champions after a fiercely contested final.
Although Tanzania fell short of the title, their remarkable journey has showcased the growing strength of youth football in the country and provided hope for a bright future for the national game.
For Senegal, the triumph further underlined their status as one of Africa’s leading football nations, while Tanzania departed the tournament with immense pride after pushing the champions all the way to the very end.
