The CAF African Schools Football Championship Continental Finals concluded in a memorable evening of African youth football celebration on Friday, May 24, as the four-day competition came to a grand close in Zanzibar.
The packed Amaan Stadium witnessed African youth football history being made when Tanzania and South Africa were crowned champions in their respective divisions.
In the boys’ division, Tanzania triumphed in front of their home supporters, securing a 1-0 victory over Guinea to claim the championship title.
The decisive goal came in a hard-fought match, capping off a tournament that showcased the depth of young talent in African football.
Abel Samson, a standout performer for Tanzania, was awarded the Best Player of the tournament for his exceptional contributions on the field.
The girls’ division final saw South Africa ascend to the pinnacle of African youth football with a thrilling victory over Morocco. After a 1-1 draw in regular time, the match was decided by penalties, with South Africa emerging victorious 5-4.
South African goalkeeper Sphumelele Zibula played a crucial role, earning the Best Goalkeeper award for her outstanding performance throughout the tournament.
The Best Player accolade in the girls’ division went to Meryem Oubella of Morocco, who showcased remarkable skill and sportsmanship.
Earlier in the day, the competition for the bronze medals provided intense excitement. In the girls’ third-place play-off, Uganda displayed resilience and determination, defeating the hosts Tanzania 1-0.
The boys’ bronze medal contest between Senegal and Benin ended in a balanced draw, which was decided by penalties. Senegal triumphed 5-3, securing their place on the podium.
CAF President Dr. Patrice Motsepe attended the final day’s events, having visited the Zanzibar State House earlier to meet H.E. Dr. Hussein Mwinyi.
His presence underscored the importance of the tournament in promoting and developing youth football across Africa.
The CAF African Schools Football Championship concluded another impactful season, highlighting the significance of youth development in the sport. The competition not only celebrated the talents of young footballers but also fostered sportsmanship and fair play.
The Fair Play awards were given to Gambia in the girls’ division and South Africa in the boys’ division, recognizing their exemplary conduct.
Individual accolades were also awarded to the top performers of the tournament. Shadia Nabrye of Uganda was the top scorer in the girls’ division with three goals, while Asmara Keita of Guinea claimed the same honor in the boys’ division.
Final Day Results:
Third Place Play-Off:
Girls:
Uganda 1 – 0 Tanzania
Boys:
Senegal (5) 0 – 0 (3) Benin
Final:
Girls:
Morocco (4) 1 – 1 (5) South Africa
Boys:
Guinea 0 – 1 Tanzania
Individual Awards:
Fair Play:
Girls – Gambia
Boys – South Africa
Best Goalkeeper:
Girls – Sphumelele Zibula (South Africa)
Boys – Mujahid Juma (Tanzania)
Top Scorer:
Girls – Shadia Nabrye (Uganda) | 3 Goals
Boys – Asmara Keita (Guinea) | 3 Goals
Best Player:
Girls – Meryem Oubella (Morocco)
Boys – Abel Samson (Tanzania)
The conclusion of the CAF African Schools Football Championship marked a significant milestone in the development of youth football, setting the stage for future stars of African football.
Photo: CAF Online
