Serengeti Boys ready for crucial AFCON U-17 opener against Mozambique

Tanzania’s U-17 national team, the Serengeti Boys, will begin their TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign today with a crucial Group C clash against Mozambique in Morocco.

The match is scheduled to kick off at 19:00 EAT at the Mohammed VI Football Complex T11, as Tanzania look to make a strong start in one of the tournament’s most competitive groups.

 

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The 2026 edition of the U-17 AFCON was officially opened on May 13, bringing together 16 nations from across the continent to compete for continental glory and qualification opportunities on the world stage.

The Serengeti Boys head into the tournament after completing several weeks of preparations in Morocco, including two international friendly matches against Cameroon and Ivory Coast. Tanzania impressed in their first warm-up match with a convincing 3-1 victory over Cameroon before falling 2-0 to Ivory Coast in their final preparatory game.

Head coach Elieneza Nsanganzelu believes the team is fully prepared for the challenge ahead and expressed confidence in his squad ahead of the opening fixture.

“The entire team is ready, both the technical bench and the players,” said Nsanganzelu. “We are in good condition, and the players are prepared for this important match, not only for the nation but also for each player individually.”

The coach added that the technical team is satisfied with the preparations despite one injury concern in the camp.

“We have prepared well for today’s match. Only one player is injured, but the rest of the squad is fit and available, and those who are ready will give their best 100 percent,” he explained.

The Serengeti Boys are making their fourth appearance at the U-17 AFCON finals after previously competing in 2017, 2019, and 2025, where they exited at the group stage on each occasion. This year, Tanzania will be aiming to go beyond the first round and make a stronger impact on the continental stage.

AFCON U-17 Group Stage Fixtures and Opening Day Results Shape Early Tournament Picture

Tanzania are placed in Group C in the U-17 AFCON alongside Mozambique, Angola, and Mali. Earlier today, Mali will face Angola in another Group C fixture.

Elsewhere in Group D, defending champions Senegal will take on South Africa at 19:00 EAT, while Algeria face Ghana later at 22:00 EAT.

Opening matches played yesterday saw hosts Morocco draw 1-1 with Tunisia, while Egypt and Ethiopia played out a goalless draw in Group A. In Group B, Ivory Coast defeated Cameroon 2-0, while Uganda secured an impressive 3-0 victory over DR Congo.