Tanzania clinch maiden CECAFA U-18 Women's Championship title

Tanzanian national under-18 team were crowned champions of the CECAFA U-18 Women's Championship for the first time after defeating rivals Uganda 1-0 in the final match on Friday.

Playing at home in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania knew a victory would secure the title regardless of goal difference, thanks to both teams being level on 9 points prior to kick-off.

The decisive goal came in the 42nd minute courtesy of a clinical finish from Winifrida Gerald, who enjoyed an inspirational tournament.

The forward also starred as her school Fountain Gate claimed regional and continental honours earlier this year.

Tanzania coach Bakari Nyundo Shime expressed his delight with the performance. "I am happy that the team played a very tactical match and won against a good Ugandan team," he said.

"I am also glad that we won all our four matches in the Championship."

Uganda head coach Khalifa Ayub conceded it was not his side's day despite creating numerous chances. "It is good that this tournament has also given our young players a good platform to be competitive," he added.

In the day's earlier third-place play-off, Burundi secured a 4-0 win over Zanzibar thanks to two goals from Adolphine Salamu and strikes by Rukya Bizimana and Wiggo Magoma (own goal).

The tournament's individual prizes saw Ethiopia striker Emush Daniel Dandamo claim the top scorer's award with five goals, while Winifrida Gerald was named the best player.

The best goalkeeper award went to Tanzania's Husna Mtunda, and Burundi picked up the fair play award after finishing fourth.