Tanzania advance to the 2026 U-17 AFCON as Kenya struggle to keep pace.
Tanzania are the first Cecafa team to qualify for the 2026 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations after defeating Kenya 3–1 in Sunday’s semifinal match in Addis Ababa. The result exposed Kenya’s continued struggles at youth level, while Tanzania extended their unbeaten run in the qualifiers.
Kenya had a strong start and won a penalty in the 10th minute after Derrick Muchiti Obote was brought down in the box. But Tanzanian goalkeeper Haji Ally Abdallah saved the spot-kick, keeping the match level and shifting the momentum.
Tanzania responded with sustained pressure and took the lead in the 19th minute when defender Nhingo Juma Luzelenga headed in the opener. Ten minutes later, Luqman Ally Mbabasalu doubled the advantage after beating the Kenyan goalkeeper in a one-on-one break.
Kenya pushed harder in the second half, led by captain Yusuf Ahmed Mohamed, but struggled to break through Tanzania’s defence. Substitute Armstrong Omondi scored Kenya’s only goal in the 84th minute with a clean strike from outside the box.
Kenya tried to force a comeback, but Tanzania sealed the match in added time through substitute Soann Shabani, who made it 3–1. The final whistle sparked celebrations for the Tanzanian side after securing their place at next year’s continental tournament.
The second semifinal, featuring hosts Ethiopia and 2024 champions Uganda, was scheduled for later on Sunday. The two finalists and the third-place team will qualify for the 2026 U-17 AFCON.
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