Tanzania’s U20 national football team, the Ngorongoro Heroes, earned their place at the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after an impressive 2-1 victory over Uganda in the Zonal CECAFA qualifiers. The semi-final match, held at the KMC Stadium in Dar es Salaam, saw the Tanzanian side overcome a second-half deficit to secure their ticket to the continental tournament.
In a tightly contested encounter, both teams struggled to break the deadlock in a goalless first half.
However, the 2022 U20 AFCON winners, Uganda, returned from the break with renewed energy.
Captain Brian Toto gave the Ugandan Hippos the lead shortly after halftime, capitalising on a well-placed free-kick.
Toto, quick to react inside the box, tapped the ball past Tanzanian goalkeeper Anthony Mpemba to put Uganda ahead.
Despite the setback, Tanzania refused to be overwhelmed and pressed forward, creating several opportunities to equalise.
Their persistence paid off in the 71st minute when a powerful shot from Sabri Kondo rattled the post and bounced off Ugandan goalkeeper Abdu Magada into the net.
The Ugandan keeper’s misfortune allowed the home side to level the score, and the match shifted in Tanzania’s favour.
With the game tied at 1-1 after 90 minutes, extra time was required to separate the teams.
The momentum remained with Tanzania, who dominated the attacking play throughout the additional period.
Substitute Jammy Jammy became the hero of the evening when he netted the decisive goal, sparking jubilant celebrations from the local fans.
Jammy’s strike ensured that Tanzania would not only win the match but also secure a coveted place in the 2025 U20 AFCON.
Uganda, despite a valiant effort and a promising start, couldn’t find a way back into the game after conceding the second goal.
Their hopes of making it to the continental stage were dashed as Tanzania advanced to the final of the Zonal CECAFA qualifiers.
This victory marks a significant achievement for the Ngorongoro Heroes, who will now focus on their preparations for the 2025 U20 AFCON.
Their resilience and fighting spirit were key to overcoming a strong Ugandan side, and they will be looking to carry this momentum into the tournament proper.
The 2025 U20 AFCON will provide Tanzania with an opportunity to showcase their talent on the continental stage, as they join other top African nations in the pursuit of glory.
