Tanzania delivered a commanding 2-0 victory over Burkina Faso in the opening match of the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN), a result shaped not only by the scoreline but by a clear tactical masterclass from the hosts at the Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium.
In front of a fervent crowd of over 30,000 spectators, Hemed Morocco’s Taifa Stars executed a disciplined and energetic 4-3-3 formation, outclassing a Burkina Faso side that struggled to find rhythm and cohesion in a rigid 4-1-4-1 setup.
The difference in approach was evident throughout the encounter, as Tanzania’s width, pace, and structured pressing left the Stallions chasing shadows for large stretches of the game.
Tanzania dictate terms from the start
From the opening whistle, Tanzania set the tempo with aggressive pressing and swift transitions, neutralizing any attempts by Burkina Faso to establish a foothold.
The home side’s ability to maintain collective control, even amidst the high-stakes pressure of a tournament opener, was a testament to their tactical preparation.
Despite their dominance, it took until first-half stoppage time for the breakthrough.
A VAR review confirmed a handball by Burkina Faso’s Frank Tologo following a surging run from Clement Mzize.
Algerian referee Lotfi Bekouassa pointed to the spot without hesitation.
Abdul Suleiman stepped up and calmly converted the penalty in the 45+3 minute, sending the home crowd into raptures and giving Tanzania a deserved lead heading into halftime.
Tactical approaches define the contest
The tactical contrast between the two teams was stark.
Tanzania’s fluid 4-3-3 allowed them to stretch Burkina Faso’s defensive lines, with wingers providing relentless width and Feisal Salum orchestrating play through the middle.
This approach consistently created pockets of space, which the Taifa Stars exploited with precision.
Burkina Faso, meanwhile, appeared shackled by their conservative 4-1-4-1 formation. Intended to provide midfield density, the system backfired as their attackers found themselves isolated, particularly forward Sangaré, who was starved of service and often cut adrift from the build-up play.
Even tactical tweaks after the interval failed to disrupt Tanzania’s control.
Second-half push seals the result
Burkina Faso attempted to inject energy with substitutions, introducing Malo, Koutiama, and Baguian.
Although these changes brought a brief spell of increased urgency, they failed to translate possession into clear-cut chances, as Tanzanian goalkeeper Aboutwalib Mshery remained largely untroubled.
Tanzania, conversely, continued their offensive pursuit. In the 71st minute, Mudathir Yahya delivered a pinpoint cross into the box, where Mohamed Hussein met it with a towering header, doubling the lead.
A momentary pause followed as VAR reviewed a potential offside, but the goal was rightly upheld, sparking wild celebrations.
The final stages saw the home side managing their lead effectively, while Burkina Faso’s efforts to mount a comeback petered out.
Foundations laid for a strong campaign
This victory marks a historic moment for Tanzania, their first-ever win in a CHAN opening match after two previous defeats.
Beyond the result, their defensive organisation, tactical sharpness, and clinical finishing signalled a team ready to make a serious impact in the tournament.
For Burkina Faso, the defeat is a sobering reminder of the tactical adjustments needed at this level.
The Stallions’ lack of offensive fluidity and predictable build-up play left them exposed, and a rapid response will be necessary to keep their tournament hopes alive.
From an organizational standpoint, CHAN 2025’s curtain-raiser was a resounding success— a vibrant crowd, smooth officiating, and effective VAR interventions set the tone for what promises to be an exciting competition.
