Tanzania Starts CHAN Campaign with Commanding 2-0 Victory Over Burkina Faso

DAR ES SALAAM—The Taifa Stars of Tanzania kicked off their 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) campaign in style with a convincing 2-0 victory against Burkina Faso at a packed Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium. The win, which marks their first-ever opening match victory in a CHAN tournament, has ignited hopes of a deep run in the competition.

The match, which was the official opener of the CHAN PAMOJA 2024 tournament co-hosted by Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda, was a showcase of a disciplined and determined Tanzanian side. The team, backed by a roaring home crowd, dominated large parts of the game and capitalized on key moments to secure all three points in Group B.

The breakthrough came just before halftime, in the 45+3rd minute, when a foul on striker Clement Mzize inside the box resulted in a penalty. Abdul Suleiman "Sopu" stepped up and calmly slotted the ball home, sending the home crowd into a frenzy and giving the Taifa Stars a crucial 1-0 lead at the break.

Tanzania sealed the victory in the second half. In the 71st minute, defender Mohamed Hussein "Tshabalala" rose highest to meet a well-delivered cross with a powerful header, doubling the lead. The goal was briefly reviewed by VAR for a potential offside, but after a tense moment, it was confirmed, sparking renewed celebrations in the stadium.

This win is a huge statement of intent for Tanzania. With Burundi and the Central African Republic also in their group, the three points give them an early advantage. For Burkina Faso, the search for their first-ever opening-day win at CHAN continues, and they now face an uphill battle to progress to the knockout stages.