Zambia kicked off their TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (U-17 AFCON) Morocco 2025 campaign in style, securing a commanding 4-1 victory over Tanzania in their Group A opener at the Stade El Bachir in Mohammedia on Monday.
Fast Start Sets the Tone
In the first Under-17 AFCON meeting between both sides, Jonathan Kalimina wasted no time in putting Zambia ahead, breaking the deadlock in the 8th minute to settle any early nerves. The young Chipolopolo doubled their advantage just before halftime, thanks to a fine finish from COSAFA U-17 Championship star Abel Nyirongo.
Zambia maintained control throughout the second half, adding a third goal in the 79th minute through Mike Mutale before Gabriel Phiri sealed an emphatic win with a stoppage-time strike.
FULL-TIME!
Fantastic 4 from Zambia as they ease past Tanzania for their first 3 points. 🇿🇲 #TotalEnergiesAFCONU17 | #TANZAM pic.twitter.com/BtctsiNhc7
— CAF_Online (@CAF_Online) March 31, 2025Morocco’s Dominant Start & World Cup Opportunity
Earlier in Group A, hosts Morocco made a statement of intent with a 5-0 rout of Uganda in the tournament’s curtain-raiser on Sunday night.
This year’s tournament holds even greater significance, as Africa will send a record 10 teams to the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar. The eight quarter-finalists will secure automatic qualification, while the final two spots will be decided through play-off matches involving the third-placed teams from the group stage.
With an electric start to the competition, Zambia has put itself in a strong position as they chase continental glory and a ticket to the U-17 World Cup.
