The second matchday of the U-17 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying in East Africa's CECAFA region unfolded on Wednesday at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo with Tanzania taking control of Group A and South Sudan booking a place in the semi-finals.
Tanzania edges Kenya to top Group A
After a 1-1 draw against hosts Uganda in their opening match, Tanzania came into the game against Kenya with a one-point advantage. Juma Sagwe’s 34th-minute strike made the difference as Tanzania claimed a 1-0 win.
Despite Kenya's second-half efforts to break through the young Taifa Stars maintained their defensive discipline and saw out the game.
Video: Tanzania 1-0 Kenya highlights (Credit: FUFA Media YouTube)
This victory propels Tanzania to the top of Group A with four points, ahead of second-placed Uganda, while Kenya sits bottom with no points.
The final group game on December 21, 2024, will see Kenya take on Uganda in a must-win clash. Uganda will need a victory by at least two goals to finish top, while Kenya must beat Uganda to progress to the next round.
South Sudan continues perfect run to reach semifinals
South Sudan maintained their 100% start to the tournament with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Sudan. Lazaru Peter George Laku’s decisive goal secured maximum points for coach Nasir Yousif Hassen's side.
Having thrashed Somalia 3-0 in their opening game, South Sudan is now guaranteed a spot in the semi-finals. Their tactical precision and solid defense have made them one of the tournament's standout teams.
South Sudan will face the second-placed team from Group A on December 24, 2024 in the semi-finals as they seek a place in the final.
Matchday 2 Results
Tanzania 1-0 Kenya
South Sudan 1-0 Sudan
What's Next?
Matchday 3 is set for December 21, 2024 with Somalia taking on Sudan in Group B while Uganda faces Kenya in Group A's decisive encounter. The outcome of these matches will determine who advances to the semi-finals alongside South Sudan.
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