Tanzania earned a vital 2-0 victory over Ethiopia in Group H of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers on Saturday, taking a significant step toward securing their spot in next year’s tournament. The Taifa Stars delivered a confident performance on the road, asserting their dominance early and holding firm under late pressure to secure all three points.
The breakthrough came in the 15th minute when Simon Msuva headed home from close range after Novatus Miroshi’s pinpoint delivery from a corner. The early goal set the tone for a Tanzanian side that looked comfortable in possession and determined to capitalize on Ethiopia’s defensive vulnerabilities.
Tanzania doubled their lead in the 31st minute through Feisal Salum, who expertly nodded in a precise cross from Shomari Kapombe. The well-crafted goal highlighted Tanzania’s attacking efficiency, leaving Ethiopia with a mountain to climb.
Despite their efforts, the Walia Ibex struggled to impose themselves on the game. Ethiopia’s best chances came late in the second half, with Birhanu Bekele and Abdulkerim Worku testing Tanzanian goalkeeper Aishi Manula. However, Manula was equal to the challenge, preserving the clean sheet with crucial saves.
The victory lifts Tanzania to second place in Group H with seven points, putting them one point ahead of Guinea, who are set to face group leaders DR Congo later tonight. With DR Congo already qualified, the race for the group’s second qualification spot remains intense, heightening the stakes for the final round of matches.
Ethiopia, meanwhile, find themselves at the bottom of the group with just one point and officially eliminated from contention. Despite their spirited attempts to salvage something from the campaign, the Walia Ibex remain winless in the qualifiers, underlining their struggles in this cycle.
With one match remaining, Tanzania are now in a strong position to clinch their place in the 2024 tournament. A solid performance in their final fixture could see them return to Africa’s biggest stage, marking another milestone for the Taifa Stars.
