Senegal were crowned champions of the 2026 CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations after defeating Tanzania 4-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw in the final played on Tuesday in Rabat, Morocco.
Tanzania took an early lead in the seventh minute through Hamis Chenga, who won possession in midfield before firing past the Senegal goalkeeper from outside the box.
Senegal responded strongly but were unable to find an equaliser before halftime as Tanzania maintained their advantage.
The defending champions leveled matters in the 64th minute when Ibrahima Dione tapped home after Tanzania goalkeeper Haji Abdullahi spilled a free-kick delivered by Souleymane Commissaire Faye.
Both sides failed to find a winner in regulation time, sending the final to a penalty shootout.
Senegal converted all four of their penalties through Commissaire Faye, Sadio, Dione and Thior. Tanzania scored through Usuph and Mbegelendi, but misses from Kilendemo and Mbegu handed Senegal the title.
The victory secured Senegal’s second CAF U-17 AFCON crown and highlighted the continued success of the country’s youth football development programme.
Despite the defeat, Tanzania completed a historic campaign, reaching the tournament final for the first time and qualifying for the FIFA U-17 World Cup.
Senegal’s triumph capped an impressive run that included knockout victories over Mali, hosts Morocco and Tanzania on their way to lifting the continental title.
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