Tanzania U17 Profile

Tanzania arrives at the TotalEnergies U-17 Africa Cup of Nations determined to make history by advancing beyond the group stage for the first time.

With a squad blending emerging talent and disciplined tactical structure, the team aims to prove its growth in African youth football.

Having come close to glory in the CECAFA U-17 Championship, Tanzania will look to carry that momentum into the continental stage as they seek their first-ever FIFA U-17 World Cup qualification.

How They Qualified

Tanzania booked their spot at the 2025 U-17 AFCON after finishing as runners-up in the CECAFA U-17 Championship.

Despite a 2-1 loss to Uganda in the final, their journey to the tournament was impressive, highlighted by a dominant 4-0 victory over South Sudan in the semi-finals.

A key figure in their campaign was Abel Josiah, who scored two crucial goals, including one in the final.

The team showcased attacking depth, with five different players getting on the scoresheet throughout the competition.

History in the U-17 AFCON

Tanzania has participated in the U-17 AFCON twice before, in 2017 and 2019, but is yet to progress beyond the group stage.

Their most notable appearance came in 2019, when they hosted the tournament, providing invaluable experience for their young players.

Despite their past struggles, Tanzania’s youth system has developed several talents who have gone on to feature for the senior national team.

Players such as Dickson Job, now the assistant captain of Young Africans SC, and Nickson Kibabage, who emerged from the 2017 squad, exemplify the tournament’s role in nurturing future stars.

Key Players to Watch

• Abel Josiah (Winger) – A dynamic wide player who operates primarily on the right flank, Josiah is dangerous when cutting inside onto his stronger left foot. His two goals in the CECAFA U-17 Championship showcased his finishing ability.
• Abrahman Nassoro (Goalkeeper) – Voted best goalkeeper at the CECAFA U-17 Championship, Nassoro’s quick reflexes and commanding presence will be vital for Tanzania’s defensive solidity.
• Kassim Juma (Captain, Winger) – A pacy and skillful dribbler, Juma has the ability to unsettle defenders and create goal-scoring opportunities, making him a key attacking threat.

Coach & Tactical Approach

The team is managed by Aggrey Morris, a former Tanzania international defender, known for instilling tactical discipline in his players. Under his leadership, Tanzania focuses on:

• Ball retention and control, ensuring they dominate possession.
• Defensive organization, keeping a structured shape to limit opposition threats.
• Quick counterattacks, using their wingers' pace to exploit defensive gaps.

Morris has implemented a well-structured tactical identity, ensuring his squad is both resilient and effective against higher-ranked teams.

Tournament Expectations & Group Analysis

Tanzania faces a tough challenge in Group A, where they will take on:

• Morocco (Hosts) – A technically strong team with home advantage, making them one of the tournament favorites.
• Uganda (Regional Rivals) – A familiar opponent who defeated them in the CECAFA final, setting up a highly anticipated rematch.
• Zambia (COSAFA Champions) – A physically dominant and well-organized side, known for their strong performances at youth level.

While progressing from the group stage will be challenging, Tanzania’s primary goal remains securing their first-ever knockout stage appearance and potentially earning a place at the FIFA U-17 World Cup.

With a blend of attacking flair and defensive discipline, they will look to defy expectations and make a lasting impact on the tournament.