The final group stage match of the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) between the Central African Republic and Tanzania ended in a goalless draw.
Despite both teams showing considerable effort, neither was able to score, resulting in a scoreline that reflected the deadlock on the pitch.
The first half featured a tactical battle, with Tanzania appearing to dominate possession early on.
Ahmed Pipino was a constant threat from the left flank, creating several opportunities for his teammates. In the 2nd minute, he took a notable shot from outside the box, which was comfortably saved by Mauril Abimala, highlighting the early exchanges between the two sides.
Dimitri Kogbeto of the Central African Republic attempted a long-range effort around the 8th minute, but it was also thwarted by Tanzania’s goalkeeper, Yakoub Suleiman.
As the half progressed, the Central African Republic began to find their rhythm but struggled to convert their chances into goals.
Efforts from Feisal Salum for Tanzania were particularly noteworthy, especially his attempts in the 39th and 40th minutes, the latter of which came following a corner kick. However, both shots were either saved or went wide, underscoring the teams’ inability to capitalize on their opportunities.
By the time the first half concluded at 45+3 minutes, both teams had produced several shots, with Tanzania having a slight edge in attacking opportunities but failing to breach the solid defensive setup of the Central African Republic.
The second half resumed with both teams making tactical substitutions to freshen their attack. Tanzania introduced Jammy Simba and Nassor Saadun to enhance their offensive intensity, while the Central African Republic brought on Juvénal Pouguy and Vianney Nguindipo, searching for a breakthrough.
The match continued to mirror earlier exchanges, with a more relaxed approach from both teams, as it held little value for either side—Tanzania had already qualified for the next stage, and the Central African Republic was eliminated after three losses.
Dimitri Kogbeto of the Central African Republic was particularly active, generating multiple atgoal attemptstwo of which were saved by Yakoub Suleiman. In the 89th minute, a promising opportunity arose for Kogbeto, but his shot, assisted by Pouguy, was saved in the center of the goal, preserving a clean sheet for Tanzania.
The match concluded with both sides earning a point but missing out on the opportunity for a vital victory.
The Central African Republic wrapped up their CHAN journey with a draw, securing at least one point in the group stage. Tanzania finished at the top of Group B with 10 points and will now await their next opponent in the quarter-finals, which will be either Kenya, DR Congo, or Morocco, depending on which team secures second place in Group A.
