Co-hosts Tanzania defeated Burkina Faso 2-0 to begin their 2024 CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) campaign on a winning note in front of a passionate crowd at the Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium in Dar es Salaam on Saturday night, www.aclsports.com reports.
It was a controlled performance from The Taifa Stars in their Group B opener, earning their first-ever win in a CHAN opening match at their third time of asking. Backed by a lively home support, the hosts were on the front foot for most of the encounter, and goals in either half from Abdul Suleiman Sopu and Mohamed Hussein sealed the deal.
The Tanzanians had more of the ball possession in the opening half, with Feisal Salum and Mzize both forcing early saves from Burkina Faso goalkeeper Ladji Sanou. On the other hand, the Stallions, meanwhile, posed some danger on the break, with Yakoub Suleiman twice called into action to deny efforts from Souleymane Sangaré and Papus Ouattara.
After the break, Burkina Faso attempted to shift the tide with the introductions of Patrick Malo and Yves Koutiama. However, it was the hosts who were firmly in control and doing everything possible to secure the win. Mudathir Yahya delivered a sumptuous cross from the right, and Hussein was on hand to head home in the 71st minute for Tanzania’s second goal as the cohosts took all three points.
The win over Burkina Faso gives Tanzania – who have never played a knockout game at this level – a valuable early edge in a tricky group that also features Burundi and the Central African Republic. Meanwhile, Burkina Faso’s search for a maiden CHAN opening-day victory continues, having now failed to secure a win in four tournament openers.
