In a dramatic U20 AFCON CECAFA qualifier final, Tanzania staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Kenya’s Rising Stars 2-1, claiming the regional title at the KMC Stadium in Dar Es Salaam.
Although Kenya had an impressive run to the final, Tanzania proved their resilience with a late rally, breaking Kenyan hearts in what was an intense and closely contested match.
Both Kenya and Tanzania had already secured their spots at the U20 AFCON next year before this final showdown, but the pride and honor of being the regional champions added extra significance to this fixture.
The two sides met earlier in the tournament’s opening match, where Kenya edged a 2-1 victory. However, in the grand finale, Tanzania turned the tables on their regional rivals.
The match kicked off with an explosive start as Tanzania came close to opening the scoring within the first 20 seconds.
Valentino Mashaka unleashed a powerful volley that seemed destined for the back of the net, only for Kenya’s keeper, Ibrahim Wanzala, to pull off a breathtaking save, keeping his team level early on.
Wanzala’s heroics continued as Tanzania pressed hard in the opening minutes, but Kenya’s defense held strong.
As the game settled, Kenya began to grow into the contest. The Rising Stars, coached by Salim Babu, started to find their rhythm and created some chances of their own.
Kevin Wangaya, who had already found the net in a free-kick against Tanzania earlier in the tournament, had another opportunity from a similar position. Unfortunately, his shot sailed just over the crossbar.
With both teams battling for control, the first half ended goalless. Tanzania dominated possession, but Kenya remained dangerous on the counterattack. The game looked evenly poised as both teams retreated to their dressing rooms to rethink their strategies.
Kenya came out of the blocks quickly in the second half, and their efforts paid off just two minutes in. AFC Leopards forward Hassan Beja found space inside the penalty box and slotted the ball into the net, sending the Kenyan fans into wild celebrations.
It was a well-worked goal, showcasing Beja’s clinical finishing, but his joy was short-lived. He sustained an injury shortly after and was substituted for Phabian Sheldon.
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Despite going behind, Tanzania didn’t let their heads drop. They kept up the pressure on the Kenyan defense, although their shooting lacked precision in the initial stages.
Kenya, on the other hand, maintained their tactical discipline, frustrating the hosts and limiting their clear-cut chances. However, as the game progressed, the energy-sapping Dar Es Salaam heat began to take its toll on the Kenyan players.
In the 65th minute, Tanzania finally broke through Kenya’s resistance. Mashaka, who had been a constant threat throughout the game, pounced on some slack defending inside the box and calmly slotted past Wanzala to level the match at 1-1.
With the game tied, both teams knew that the next goal would be crucial. Kenya made changes to freshen up their squad, introducing Kelly Madada and Ezekiah Omuri in search of a winner. But it was Tanzania who found the decisive moment.
Seven minutes from time, Sheikhan Khamis produced a moment of magic, striking a stunning left-footed volley from outside the penalty area that sailed into the top corner, leaving Wanzala with no chance. It was a goal worthy of winning any final and sent the Tanzanian crowd into raptures.
From that moment, Tanzania managed the game expertly, slowing down the tempo and frustrating Kenya. Despite their best efforts, Kenya couldn’t find an equalizer, and Tanzania held on to claim a well-deserved 2-1 victory, securing the U20 AFCON CECAFA regional title.
A Heartbreaking End for Kenya, but a Promising Future
While the defeat was undoubtedly a bitter pill to swallow for Kenya, there were plenty of positives to take from their campaign.
The Rising Stars remained unbeaten throughout the tournament until the final, displaying solid defense and moments of attacking brilliance. More importantly, they have qualified for the U20 AFCON, where they will have another chance to showcase their talent on a bigger stage.
Salim Babu’s side can take heart from the fact that they pushed the hosts all the way in a high-stakes final, only falling short in the closing stages. Players like Ibrahim Wanzala and Hassan Beja were standout performers, and their contributions will be crucial in the upcoming AFCON tournament.
Tanzania’s Triumph
For Tanzania, this victory will go down as a special moment in their footballing history. They not only avenged their earlier defeat to Kenya in the group stage but also showed incredible determination and character to come from behind in the final. The team’s ability to bounce back from setbacks will serve them well as they prepare for the U20 AFCON.
With stars like Mashaka and Khamis leading the charge, Tanzania will be a team to watch in the upcoming tournament. Their win in front of home fans will undoubtedly boost their confidence, and they’ll look to build on this success in the continental competition.
