Tanzania reach historic CHAN quarters as Mauritania keep hopes alive

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Tanzania secured a place in the CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) quarter-finals for the first time in their history after a 2-1 win over Madagascar in Dar es Salaam on Saturday, while Mauritania revived their campaign with a narrow victory over the Central African Republic (CAR) earlier in the day.

The hosts, already buoyed by consecutive wins, made a blistering start in front of an expectant home crowd. Clement Mzize struck twice inside the opening 20 minutes, first pouncing on a loose ball to finish from close range, then heading in at the far post after a set-piece was only half-cleared.

Madagascar hit back on 34 minutes when Nantenaina Razafimahatana converted from Lalaina Rafanomezantsoa’s cross, but despite spells of pressure after the break, the Barea were unable to break through a disciplined Tanzanian back line.

Ahmed Mokhtar Ahmed stepped up for Mauritania on an unforgettable evening at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium. Courtesy Photo/CAF

Coach Hemed Suleiman’s side saw out the closing stages with composure to finish top of Group B on nine points.

Mauritania survive CAR siege

Earlier, Mauritania edged CAR 1-0 to keep their quarter-final hopes alive. Ahmed El Moctar struck in the ninth minute, turning in Abdallahi Mahmoud’s cross, and the Mourabitounes then defended doggedly.

Goalkeeper Abderrahmane Sarr produced key saves, notably tipping over a Flory Yangao header and clawing away a stoppage-time effort from Ronaldo Zé.

The result leaves CAR without a point after two defeats, while Mauritania move up to four points from three matches. Burkina Faso, on three points from two games, can still overtake them in the race for second place.

Tanzania will face a yet-to-be-determined opponent in the last eight, while Mauritania must wait on other results to confirm their fate.