Tanzania win CECAFA U-23 Challenge Cup 2021

Tanzania have lifted the regional CECAFA U-23 Challenge Cup 2021.

Coach Kim Poulsen’s team defeated a hard fighting Burundi team 6-5 in penalty shootouts after a goalless draw in the 90 minutes at the Bahir Dar Stadium this afternoon.

The two teams played a highly cautious and defensive game, with a few scoring opportunities created. It was Burundi’s Adolphe Hakizimana who missed the sixth penalty to hand Tanzania the trophy.

“It’s a great moment and I am happy we came here and won the trophy with little preparation. Burundi was a very good side,’ said Tanzania’s coach Poulsen.

Burundi’s coach Jimmy Ndayizeye thanked Tanzania for the good display. “I want to thank my boys for showing good fighting sprit through out the tournament. It was not our day today in the penalties,” added the coach.

The final was also graced by CAF 3rd Vice President Souleiman Hassan Waberi, CECAFA President Wallace Karia and Ethiopia Football Federation (EFF) President Esayas Jira among others.

The regional tournament attracted nine teams with South Sudan finishing third and Kenya in fourth place. In the other classification matches Uganda defeated Eritrea to finish 5th, while hosts Ethiopia where ranked 7th and guest side DR Congo 8th. Djibouti who lost all their two games were placed 9th.