Africa-Press – Tanzania. In an intense and fast-paced opening half of CHAN 2024, Tanzania showed early intent to take control of the match against Burkina Faso at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.
The host nation came close to breaking the deadlock when striker Toto found himself with the best of chances midway through the half. Shooting pass the Burkina Faso defence when he unleashed a powerful strike that looked destined for the back of the net, but goalkeeper Ladji Brahima Souna pulled off a brilliant save to deny him and keep the score level.
Tanzania continued to press forward, creating a few more half-chances, but wasteful finishing and strong defensive work from the Stallions kept the game goalless.
The breakthrough finally came in the dying moments of the first half. As the hosts pushed for a lead, forward Stephano Mzize was brought down inside the penalty area after a sharp turn forced a clumsy challenge from the Burkina Faso defence. The referee pointed straight to the spot.
Abdul Suleyman Sopu stepped up with composure and converted the penalty confidently, way to hand Tanzania a 1-0 lead in the 45+2 minute, a crucial goal just before the break that sent the home crowd into wild celebrations.
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