Five players who lit up Tanzania's journey to the TotalEnergies CHAN knockout stage
Roared on by the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium faithful, the team became the first side to secure a quarter-final berth, sweeping through the group stage with three straight wins before even kicking a ball in their final fixture.
Their performances have blended defensive resilience, midfield intelligence, and ruthless finishing – a complete package that has left fans dreaming of an historic first continental crown.
With nine points from their opening three matches, five goals scored, and just one conceded, the Taifa Stars have shown both steel and style.
At the heart of this sparkling start is a quintet of players whose individual brilliance has powered the collective success.
From match-winning goals to defence-splitting passes and electrifying wing play, these five standouts have been the heartbeat of Tanzania's campaign.
Feisal Salum Abdallah – The Midfield Mastermind
Pulling the strings in the centre of the park, Faisal has been the creative engine behind Tanzania's early dominance.
Named TotalEnergies Man of the Match in the opener against Burkina Faso, he combined vision with surgical passing to unlock defences time and again.
His calm control under pressure, coupled with his knack for finding runners in space, has made him the perfect architect for the Taifa Stars' attacking moves.
Shomari Salum Kapombe – The Defender with a Decisive Touch
A rock at right-back, Kapombe has not only shut down attacks but also delivered one of the team's defining moments – a last-gasp winner against Mauritania.
His goal, scored deep into stoppage time, underlined his composure in big moments and showcased the attacking contribution modern full-backs bring.
For Tanzania, Kapombe has been the reassuring 'safety valve' at the back and a surprise weapon up front.
Mudathir Abbas Yahya Abasi – The Tempo Controller
A picture of composure in the heart of midfield, Abbas Yahya orchestrated Tanzania's play in the second match against Mauritania, earning the TotalEnergies Man of the Match award.
His intelligent movement between the lines created passing lanes, while his quick link-up play ensured a smooth transition from defence to attack.
He has been instrumental in dictating the pace of games, making the midfield a zone of control for the Taifa Stars.
Clement Francis Mzize – The Sharp-Shooting Striker
Mzize etched his name into the headlines with a decisive brace against Madagascar, sealing a 2-1 win and earning Man of the Match honours.
His intelligent positioning, quick bursts of pace, and clinical finishing have made him the focal point of Tanzania's attack.
In a tournament where goals win games – and games decide destinies – his contribution has been invaluable.
Iddi Selemani Alli – The Flank Flyer
Whether hugging the touchline or cutting inside, Ali Suleiman's speed and dribbling flair have tormented defenders throughout the group stage.
His ability to stretch play and deliver pinpoint final balls has brought both unpredictability and excitement to Tanzania's forward play.
With him on either wing, the Taifa Stars carry a constant threat that keeps opposition full-backs guessing. A Dream Within Reach
As Tanzania prepare for the knockout rounds, the chemistry between this brilliant quintet and their teammates fuels belief that history can be made.
Solid at the back, inventive in midfield, and lethal in attack, this side has all the tools to chase the dream of a maiden continental title.
For fans and neutrals alike, the message is clear – the Taifa Stars are not just hosting CHAN; they are determined to own it.
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