2026 WAFCON Qualifiers: Tanzania defeat Ethiopia 2-0 in first leg of second round clash

Tanzania took a major step toward qualifying for the 2026 CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations after recording a 2-0 victory against Ethiopia in the first leg of their second-round clash on Wednesday.

Playing at the Azam Complex Stadium, Twiga Stars got off to a dream start when Aisha Mnunka opened the scoring just seven minutes into the match.

Despite Ethiopia’s attacking duo of Aregash Kalsa and Senaf Wakuma pushing forward in search of an equaliser, Tanzania’s defence stood firm to preserve their lead heading into the break.

In the second half, the hosts doubled their advantage through Jamila Rajab, who scored in the 54th minute to give Tanzania a crucial cushion in the tie.

Ethiopia continued to press for a goal to keep their qualification hopes alive, but were unable to break through a resolute Tanzanian backline.

With a 2-0 advantage, Tanzania will head into the return leg on October 28 in Ethiopia with confidence, knowing that a positive result will secure their place at WAFCON 2026 in Morocco.

Meanwhile, in other CECAFA zone fixtures, Kenya will host Gambia in their first-leg encounter on October 24 in Nairobi.

Winners over two legs in the second round will automatically qualify for the tournament.