Senegal demonstrated resilience and composure under pressure to defeat Tanzania 4-2 on penalties and lift the 2026 CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations title after a thrilling 1-1 draw in the final in Rabat.
The Young Lions of Teranga were forced to battle back after Tanzania made a dream start at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium, taking the lead through Hamis Chenga just seven minutes into the contest.
Despite Tanzania’s strong defensive display, Senegal gradually took control of the game and found a breakthrough in the 64th minute when Ibrahima Dione capitalised on a goalkeeping error to level the score.
The equaliser came after Tanzanian goalkeeper Haji Abdullahi failed to hold onto a free-kick from Souleymane Commissaire Faye, allowing Dione to pounce from close range.
With neither side able to find a decisive goal during regulation time, the championship was settled through a penalty shootout.
Senegal held their nerve from the spot, with Souleymane Commissaire Faye, Sadio, Dione and Thior all converting their penalties. Tanzania managed successful efforts through Usuph and Mbegelendi but suffered costly misses from Kilendemo and Mbegu.
The victory secured Senegal’s second CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations title and reinforced the country’s growing reputation as one of Africa’s leading producers of young football talent.
For Tanzania, the defeat marked a heartbreaking end to an impressive tournament campaign, having pushed the defending champions all the way before falling short in the shootout.
Senegal’s triumph once again highlights the success of the nation’s youth development system, which continues to produce competitive teams capable of excelling on the continental stage.
