Senegal have been crowned champions of the U17 Africa Cup of Nations after a dramatic victory over Tanzania in the final decided on Tuesday in Morocco.
The Young Lions of Teranga secured their second title in the competition’s history following a hard-fought 4-2 win on penalties after the match ended 1-1 in regulation time at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat.
Senegal, who previously lifted the trophy in 2023, were made to work hard by a resilient Tanzanian side that took an early lead in the encounter.
Hamis Mihambo stunned the Senegalese in the 7th minute, putting Tanzania ahead and setting the tone for a tense final.
Lamine Sané’s side responded with improved intensity after the break and eventually found their equaliser in the 64th minute through Ibrahima Dione.
The forward, who had only been on the pitch for two minutes, capitalised on a rebound after the Tanzanian goalkeeper failed to hold onto a shot, calmly slotting into an empty net for his second goal of the tournament.
Despite efforts from both teams to find a winner, neither side could break the deadlock in regulation time, forcing the match into a penalty shootout.
Senegal held their nerve from the spot, converting four of their kicks to seal a 4-2 shootout victory and confirm their status as champions once again.
The triumph marks a return to the summit of African youth football for Senegal, underlining their growing dominance at the developmental level.
