By Satish Sekar © Satish Sekar (August 16^th 2025)

Group B Matchday 5

The Central African Republic (CAR) ended their CHAN by holding the already qualified co-hosts Tanzania to a 0-0 draw. The Taifa Stars striker Feisal Salim wasted several opportunities, but CAR coach Yacoub Suleiman saw his team exit the CHAN with the dignity he had demanded – a hard fought for point. They ended bottom of Group B, but their only point meant they were only team the previously rampant Taifa Stars failed to beat.

Nevertheless, Tanzania headed Group B, meaning they would play the second placed team from Group A.

Burkina Faso had been a disappointment so far. Their last chance of redemption came against Madagascar who needed a win to pip Mauritania to second place and a quarter-final berth against the winners of Group A. The Barrea beat the Stallions 2-1 to edge out Mauritania on goal difference – both had 7 points but Madagascar’s goal difference was one better than Mauritania’s. Fenohasina Gilles Razafimaro gave the Barrea a dream start at Zanzibar’s Amaan Stadium, scoring with a long-range effort after just 7 minutes. Hanaby Sagne’s cross was headed in by Souleymane Sangaré to equalise after 25 minutes. Madagascar knew that they had to win and that any win would do – just. Nomena Lalaina Rafanomezantsoa gave them the lead after 58 minutes from the penalty spot – Sagne turned villain by conceding that penalty. The Barrea held on for over half an hour despite the Stallions pushing for an equaliser, sending Mauritania home.