Zonal AFCON U-17 QUALIFIERS: Tanzania’s star Mvungi suspended for semi-final clash against Ethiopia

In-form Tanzanian striker Omar Abbas Mvungi is suspended for today clash against Ethiopia as the Zonal Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) qualifiers enters the semi-final stage.

Mvungi who is Tanzania’s leading scorer at the tournament on-going in Rubavu, Rwanda received two yellow cards in the group stages in matches against Rwanda and Djibouti.

Maalim Swalehe Mohamed, the Tanzanian coach said it is a big blow for their top player to be ruled out because of suspension, but added that other players can also do the job. “We have prepared well for the semi-final match which we know will not be an easy one,” added the coach.

He will hope that other players like Kassimu Yahaya, Chande Mkala and skipper Madaki Chasambi can find the goals to propel Tanzania to the final.

The first semi-final clash will see defending champions Uganda Cubs face a determined Djibouti side. To reach the knock out stage, Uganda won all their two group A games against Kenya (5-0) and Ethiopia (3-0), while Djibouti settled a goalless draw against hosts Rwanda and a 1-all draw against Tanzania.

But Uganda’s coach Hamuza Lutalo has made it clear that they are here to retain the trophy and qualify for the Afcon U-17 competition. “The boys know what we expect from them. There is no weak team here and we shall not underrate the Djibouti team,” added Lutalo.

Auka, Gecheo, the Cecafa Executive Director said they are excited to get to the knock out stage of the tournament after starting with some challenges. “We than the government of Rwanda and the football body, FERWAFA for allowing to host this qualifier for the region.

The play-off for third place and the final will be played on December 22nd with the best two teams qualifying for the Afcon U-17 to take place in March next year in Morocco.