Tanzania faced a tough start to their campaign in the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), suffering a 4-1 defeat to Zambia in their Group A opener at El Bachir Stadium, Mohammedia.
The Junior Chipolopolo took an early lead through Jonathan Kalimina, capitalizing on a defensive lapse in the 8th minute.
Despite efforts from Tanzanian captain Kassim Juma and forwards Jabiri Farijala and Juma Abushiri to regroup, Zambia doubled their advantage before halftime with Abel Nyirongo finishing off a cross from Nthasilwe Malupande.
Tanzania returned with determination in the second half, with Juma Sagwe forcing a save from Zambia’s goalkeeper Rogers Simumba.
However, Zambia’s fluid passing and attacking prowess proved too strong, as Mike Mutale added a third goal in the 79th minute. Sagwe managed to pull one back for Tanzania with a well-timed header, but substitute Gabriel Phiri sealed Zambia’s dominant performance with a late fourth goal.
Tanzania will look to bounce back on Thursday when they face fellow CECAFA side Uganda, who themselves endured a challenging start with a 5-0 loss to hosts Morocco in their opening match.
