Tanzania Secure Top Spot With Unbeaten Run

At the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania could not find the net against debutants Central African Republic (CAR), but the draw was enough to clinch first place with 10 points from four matches. Led by coach Hamad Suleiman, the Taifa Stars had already sealed qualification with three straight wins, and although they failed to score for the first time in the tournament, they finished the group with five goals scored and only one conceded.

Playmaker Feisal Salum came close on several occasions, while substitute Iddy Nado wasted a promising free-kick opportunity. In the final minutes, goalkeeper Yakoub Suleiman preserved the draw with key saves against Dimitri Kogbeto, stopping a potential late winner.

CAR Exit With Pride

For the Central African Republic, the point earned was symbolic. After three consecutive losses, they avoided leaving their maiden CHAN appearance empty-handed, showing defensive resilience and determination. Coach Sebastien Ngato had urged his players to “leave with dignity,” and the display in Dar es Salaam was applauded by the fans despite finishing bottom with one point.

Madagascar Eliminate Mauritania in Tight Finish

In the other decisive fixture, Madagascar edged Mauritania 2-1 to claim the group’s second qualifying spot. Both teams finished level on seven points, but Madagascar’s superior goal difference (+2 versus Mauritania’s +1) sealed their progression.

Burkina Faso, meanwhile, ended with three points and were eliminated, while CAR closed the group in last place.

Quarterfinal Outlook

With the group stage concluded, Tanzania advance as group winners and prepare for a potentially favorable quarterfinal matchup against a runner-up from another pool. Coach Hamad Suleiman described finishing first as “writing history,” pointing to his team’s consistency as a sign of their growing stature in African football.

For Madagascar, confidence will be high as they return to the knockout rounds with resilience and attacking flair as their biggest strengths.