Who could have predicted such a path for young Tanzanians? After a successful start, Tanzania confirmed its surprise status of this U17 showpiece by sweeping Angola on the score without appeal of 3-0. Facing Palancas Negras quickly reduced to ten, the Serengeti Boys delivered a clinical performance.
Razaki Mbegelendi first opened the way in the 27th minute, followed by Hasan Kizinga in the second period (52nd). To complete this triumph, Sadam Hamis sealed the score in the 66th minute. Thanks to this second win in a row without conceding a goal, Tanzania officially confirms its qualification for the quarter-finals of the CAN, but also secures a historic participation in the next U17 World Cup. Angola, on the other hand, remains a red lantern with zero points but retains a tiny mathematical hope.
Mali, weighed down by its lack of efficiency
Favorite of the group, Mali is treading water. After a draw against Angola, the Malians were again held in check by a valiant team from Mozambique (1-1). Caught cold in the fourth minute of play by conceding the opening goal, the Aiglonnets ran after the scoreboard for a large part of the game.
After a lot of attacks, the Malians finally found their way to the match shortly after time thanks to an equalization by Youssif Sylla (65'). Despite an outrageous ball possession and numerous opportunities at the end of the match, Mali sinned in their last move and sorely lacked efficiency.
As a result, Tanzania sits comfortably at the top of Pool C and is assured of first place (6 pts). Next are Mali (2 pts), Mozambique (1 pt) and Angola (0 pt). Everything will be decided on the final day with the posters Mali – Tanzania and Angola – Mozambique.
Algeria asserts itself
In what many call a group of death, the young Algerian Fennecs have sent a strong message. After a spectacular draw against Ghana at the start of the competition, Algeria scored a heroic 2-0 win over South Africa.
The hero of the encounter is named Abed. The Algerian striker showed a remarkable opportunism by offering himself a saving double: first just before the break in the 41st minute, then at the end of the game in the 85th minute to throw the last hopes of the Amajimbos. Thanks to this success full of maturity, Algeria settles alone at the controls of its chicken.
A heroic Senegal
Beaten at the start by South Africa (1-2), Senegal no longer had the right to make a mistake against Ghana. And the least we can say is that the Lion Cubs went for this victory (1-0) in the depths of their guts during a match with a Dantesque scenario.
From the 9th minute, Senegal trembles but sees a Ghanaian goal being refused. The major turning point came in the 41st minute with the direct expulsion of El Hadji Sow, leaving the Senegalese at ten. Just before half-time, in the added time of the first period, Ghana gets a penalty to drive in the nail, but the Senegalese goalkeeper takes out a monumental parade to preserve the blank score.
Invigorated by this feat, the Senegalese find the necessary resources in the 58th minute thanks to a splendid achievement of Ibrahima Dione. Strong and united, the Cubs held on until the final whistle to give themselves three gold points.
In a totally undecided group C, Algeria leads the pack (4 pts), close behind South Africa (3 pts) and Senegal (3 pts), while Ghana closes the gap (1 pt). The outcome is expected this Wednesday with two electric shocks: a thrilling Senegal – Algeria and a decisive confrontation between South Africa and Ghana. All teams remain in a position to qualify or leave. Stakes at all levels.
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À propos de l'auteur
Philemon MBALE
Rédacteur sportif
Passionné de sport depuis toujours, partage avec vous les dernières actualités et analyses du monde sportif.