Tanzania became the first team to secure a place in the quarter-finals of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) – PAMOJA, following a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Madagascar.
Earlier in the day, Mauritania revived their qualification hopes with a narrow 1-0 win against the Central African Republic.
Group B produced drama and clarity as the host nation, buoyed by home support at the Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium in Dar es Salaam, claimed a third consecutive victory to top the group and punch their ticket to the knockout stage.
Mauritania, meanwhile, climbed to second place in the standings, one point behind Tanzania, as they earned their first win of the tournament with a disciplined performance in the day’s opening fixture.
Mauritania Edge Central African Republic
The day began with Mauritania taking on the Central African Republic in a high-stakes encounter. The Mourabitounes wasted no time asserting themselves, scoring in the 9th minute through Ahmed El Moctar, who finished off a low cross from Abdallahi Mahmoud on the right wing.
The goal would prove to be the game’s only strike, despite numerous chances for both sides. Mauritania maintained a structured and compact shape throughout, while the Central African Republic ramped up pressure, particularly in the second half.
Goalkeeper Abderrahmane Sarr was a standout performer for Mauritania, producing a series of crucial saves to keep his side in front. He denied efforts from Dimitri Kogbeto, Nelson Ngaro, and Flory Yangao before the break, and continued his heroics after the interval, stopping attempts from Miambaye Fourdeau and Ghislain Mounguide.
Sarr’s biggest save came in stoppage time, diving to push away a powerful header from Ronaldo Zé to preserve the lead. Mauritania’s ability to withstand the pressure and protect their early advantage keeps them firmly in contention for qualification, either by finishing second or potentially as one of the two best third-placed teams.
The result leaves the Central African Republic on the brink of elimination, having suffered back-to-back defeats in their debut CHAN campaign. With upcoming matches against both Tanzania and Burkina Faso, the path forward looks increasingly difficult.
Tanzania Triumph Over Madagascar to Reach Quarter-Finals
In the evening fixture, a lively crowd at the Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium witnessed a historic night as Tanzania overcame Madagascar 2-1, securing their place in the quarter-finals for the first time in CHAN history.
Clément Mzize was the hero of the evening, scoring both goals for the Taifa Stars in a dominant first-half display. The forward struck first in the 13th minute, reacting quickly to a rebound after Mudathir Yahya’s shot hit the post.
Just seven minutes later, Mzize doubled the lead with a clever finish at the near post, converting a well-placed free-kick from Feisal Salam Abdalla.
Madagascar responded before the break, reducing the deficit in the 34th minute through Nantenaina Razafimahatana, who fired into the top corner after a precise cross from Lalina Rafanomezantsoa.
The second half saw increased urgency from the Barea, who pushed forward in search of an equaliser. However, Tanzania managed the game intelligently, introducing fresh legs in Pascal Msindo and Nassor Saadun to reinforce their defensive setup.
Despite continued pressure from Madagascar, Tanzania held firm, and the final whistle sparked celebrations in the stands and across the country, as the hosts reached the last eight for the first time in the competition’s history.
As Group B edges closer to conclusion, Tanzania’s progress is confirmed, while Mauritania and Burkina Faso are set for a decisive clash that could determine the group’s second qualifier or best third-placed contender.
