The Serengeti Boys have continued to impress at the on-going 4-Nation China International Youth Football Tournament.
After stopping Nigeria 3-2 in their opening match, the Tanzania U-17s humbled hosts China 2-0 in a match played on Wednesday.
Tanzania, the runner-ups at the CAF U-17 TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), controlled much of the match with pace and physicality.
After Hasani Mussa Kizinga struck the crossbar from a 38th-minute penalty, he made amends just before halftime with a long-range strike to give Tanzania the lead.
China showed greater attacking intent
China showed greater attacking intent after the break but struggled to break down Tanzania’s organized defense. Tanzania had a goal disallowed for offside in the 69th minute before Dismas Shida Athanasi capitalized on a defensive error deep into stoppage time to seal the victory.
China’s coach Bin Ukishima credited Tanzania for their good speed, physical strength, individual quality and tactical discipline posed major problems for his side.
“Tanzania gave us valuable World Cup-level experience. It was a very useful simulation match,” said Ukishima.
In the second game Nigeria U-7s suffered a 4-2 defeat to Australia. The tournament will end on July 11th as Tanzania face Australia and China take on Nigeria.
Tanzania are using the 4-Nations Invitational tournament to prepare ahead of the FIFA U-17 World Cup 2026 to take place in December in Qatar.
