November 16, 2024
By Deborah Adekanye Ayobami
Tanzania’s Taifa Stars secured a crucial 2-0 victory over Ethiopia in Group H of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers on Saturday, significantly boosting their chances of qualifying for next year’s tournament.
The match, played away from home, saw Tanzania dominate proceedings from the outset.
Simon Msuva opened the scoring in the 15th minute with a close-range header, expertly converting a well-executed corner by Novatus Miroshi.
Tanzania continued to press, doubling their advantage in the 31st minute when Feisal Salum nodded home a precise cross from Shomari Kapombe.
Ethiopia struggled to find their rhythm throughout the match, with their best opportunities coming late in the second half.
Birhanu Bekele and Abdulkerim Worku both tested Tanzanian goalkeeper Aishi Manula, but were unable to find the back of the net.
The win moves Tanzania to second place in Group H with seven points, one point ahead of Guinea, who face group leaders DR Congo later tonight.
With DR Congo already qualified, the fight for the group’s second ticket to the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON remains wide open. Ethiopia, rooted to the bottom of the group with just one point, have been eliminated from contention.
Despite their spirited attempts, the Walia Ibex were unable to break their winless streak in the qualifiers. Tanzania’s coach, Kim Poulsen, expressed his satisfaction with the result, stating, “This win gives us a great chance to qualify… We’ll focus on our final match to ensure our place in the tournament.”
The Taifa Stars are now in a strong position to secure their place in the tournament. With one match remaining in the qualifiers, Tanzania will look to cement their spot in the AFCON.
The final round of matches promises intense competition, with Guinea and Tanzania vying for the remaining spot. Tanzania’s victory has set up a tense finale, and football fans will eagerly await the outcome of the remaining matches.
