Tanzania’s journey in the African Nations Championship (CHAN) got off to a winning start after a 2-0 victory over Burkina Faso in the group opener staged at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam on Saturday, August 2, 2025.

Goals on the sides of the half from Abdul Suleiman Sopu and Mohammed Hussein secured the historic win for Tanzania, who are one of the three hosts of the current edition.

Taifa Stars were the first on the attack, with Clement Mzize and Iddi Nado seeing tame efforts at goal that were picked up by Burkina Faso’s keeper.

First goal of the tournament

Hemed Suleiman’s team upped the tempo and deservedly got in front through a penalty awarded in the 43rd minute after Clement Mzize was brought down in the box.

Azam FC striker Abdul stepped up to expertly pick his spot past the goalie for the opener.

All eyes on Abdul Suleiman and he delivers the first of the tournament for the hosts! 🇹🇿🥶

Purchase your #TotalEnergiesCHAN2024 tickets here 👉 https://t.co/AbrqIVepKG pic.twitter.com/avC2zQC4YQ

— CAF_Online (@CAF_Online) August 2, 2025

Taifa’s Stars second

VAR was brought into play after Taifa’s goal was first disallowed by the referee Lotfi Bekouassa. This was after Burkinabe goalkeeper Ladji Sanou came out to pick a loose ball, but due to poor judgment, it landed on Iddi Alli’s feet, who spotted Mohammed Hussein in the penalty area and Simba SC midfielder headed it into an empty net.

The goal was first disallowed, but after referee Lotfi Bekouassa consulted the VAR, he overturned the decision and pointed to the centre circle, giving Tanzania a much-needed cushion.

The West African side tried to mount a comeback, but Taifa Stars mounted a well-organised defensive work to deny Burkina Faso even a consolation goal.

VAR imetiki🤩 chuma cha pili!

Purchase your #TotalEnergiesCHAN2024 tickets here 👉 https://t.co/AbrqIVepKG pic.twitter.com/FSWPA4HbCi

— CAF_Online (@CAF_Online) August 2, 2025

Harambee Stars

On Sunday, Harambee Stars will kick off their campaign at 3 pm in a much-awaited tie against the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) at the Kasarani Stadium.

On Monday, August 4, 2025, Uganda Cranes open their campaign against Algeria at the Nelson Mandela Stadium.