Tanzania will face Senegal in the final of the TotalEnergies CAF Under-17 Africa Cup of Nations after a dramatic day of semi-final football set up a showdown between East and West African football traditions.
Senegal booked their place in the final on Thursday night after defeating hosts Morocco 7-6 on penalties following a tense 1-1 draw at Prince Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat.
The victory sends the Young Lions of Teranga into another continental final and reinforces Senegal’s growing reputation as one of Africa’s dominant football powers at youth level.
But the final narrative extends beyond Senegal’s continued rise.
Standing between Senegal and the title is Tanzania, whose historic run to the final has given East African football one of its biggest moments on the continental stage after eliminating Egypt in a penalty shootout earlier in the day.
The result creates a rare East Africa versus West Africa final — a matchup carrying significance beyond the trophy itself as two regions with different football histories and development pathways meet for continental supremacy.
Senegal looked set to avoid extra drama after taking a first-half lead through Mouhamed Wagne in the 23rd minute after good work from Commissaire Faye created the opening.
Morocco struggled to break down Senegal’s organized defense and saw a first-half equalizer ruled out after video review, increasing pressure on the hosts.
The Atlas Lions eventually found a way back deep into stoppage time when a handball decision gave them a penalty in the ninth minute of added time.
Although goalkeeper Assane Sarr saved Ismail El Aoud’s initial effort, the Moroccan midfielder reacted quickest to score from the rebound and force penalties.
The shootout produced further tension as both goalkeepers made saves before Senegal finally prevailed 7-6 in sudden death.
Sarr, who had already denied Morocco from the spot during regulation, emerged as the decisive figure once again with crucial interventions during the shootout.
Morocco’s elimination ended hopes of lifting the title on home soil despite a spirited comeback in front of their supporters.
Attention now shifts to the final, where Tanzania will try to continue its remarkable run and deliver East Africa a rare continental youth title, while Senegal seeks another chapter in its expanding football success story.
The final offers more than a trophy: it offers regional pride, contrasting football cultures and a glimpse into where Africa’s next generation of talent is emerging.
