The 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) got underway on Saturday in Tanzania, where the hosts opened their campaign with a solid 2-0 victory over Burkina Faso at the Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium.
Tanzania broke the deadlock after Clement Mzize was brought down in the box by Frank Tologo. Abdul Suleiman stepped up and coolly slotted home from the penalty spot, sending goalkeeper Ladji Sanou the wrong way in the third minute of first-half stoppage time.
In the second half, the Taifa Stars doubled their lead following a sustained spell of pressure. Mudathir Yahya whipped in a teasing cross from the right, and Mohamed Hussein rose highest to head home in the 71st minute, sealing the win for Tanzania.
The result gives Tanzania an early advantage in a challenging group that also includes Madagascar, Mauritania, and the Central African Republic.
For Burkina Faso, the wait for a first-ever opening-day win at CHAN continues—they have now failed to win any of their four tournament openers.
Meanwhile, the tournament continues today with Madagascar facing Mauritania in Group B. In Group A action, Morocco will take on Angola, while co-hosts Kenya will clash with DR Congo in Nairobi.
Zambia, also drawn in Group A, will kick off their campaign on Thursday when they face Congo.
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