Tanzania continued their dream run at the 2024 CHAN tournament with a dramatic 1-0 win over Mauritania at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam on Wednesday night.
Veteran defender Shomari Kapombe emerged as the hero, netting the game’s only goal in the 89th minute after a precise pass from Iddy Nado, sending the home crowd into a frenzy.
With the result, the Taifa Stars claimed their second straight victory, after beating Burkina Faso in their opener to take command of Group B with six points and no goals conceded.
Mauritania, who drew their first match against Madagascar, were left disappointed and now face a must-win clash against Burkina Faso to keep their slim hopes alive.
The match was tightly contested, with limited chances in the first half. Mauritania came close through Ahmed El Moctar, while Tanzania’s Feisal Salum and Iddy Nado also had near misses.
Substitutions in the second half added urgency, but it wasn’t until the dying minutes that the breakthrough came. Kapombe’s well-timed run and clinical finish sealed the win.
Despite enjoying more possession, Mauritania lacked a final punch, and their tournament destiny now hangs in the balance.
Tanzania, meanwhile, are on the verge of a historic knockout appearance and are expected to rest key players in their final group game against Madagascar.
