It’s a historic moment for Tanzania, co-hosting the continental tournament for the first time alongside Kenya and Uganda
Dar es Salaam. The long wait is over—all eyes turn to Benjamin Mkapa Stadium tonight at 8:00 PM as Tanzania's Taifa Stars face off against Burkina Faso in the explosive opening match of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN).
It’s a historic moment for Tanzania, co-hosting the continental tournament for the first time alongside Kenya and Uganda. The grand opening ceremony will be graced by Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa, with thousands of fans expected to pack the stadium for a night of football and celebration.
Adding to the spectacle, Bongo Flava star Rayvanny is set to electrify the crowd, headlining a lineup of performances that promise to light up the evening and usher in one of Africa’s biggest football festivals.
Led by head coach Hemed “ Morocco” Suleiman , the Taifa Stars squad features 25 determined local players. After intensive preparations in Egypt and Karatu, they arrive with momentum, having won both friendly matches—beating Uganda 1-0 and edging out Senegal 2-1.
“We are in excellent physical and mental shape,” said Coach Morocco. “We trained hard in Egypt for ten days, then fine-tuned in Karatu. The support from Tanzanians is incredible and truly inspires the team. We’re ready to fight for success.”
Taifa Stars: Projected Starting XI vs Burkina Faso
Based on recent form in friendlies, this is the likely starting line-up:
Goalkeeper:
Yakoub Suleiman (favored over Hussein Masalanga and Aishi Manula)
Defenders:
Shomari Kapombe
Mohamed Hussein
Dickson Job
Ibrahim Bacca
Midfielders:
Yusuph Kagoma
Mudathir Yahya
Feisal “Fei Toto” Salum
Idd “Nado” Suleiman
Forwards:
Clement Mzize
Abdul “Sopu”Suleiman
Full Taifa Stars Squad (25 players)
Goalkeepers:
Aishi Manula, Hussein Masalanga, Yakoub Suleiman
Defenders:
Shomari Kapombe, Lusajo Mwaikenda, Mohamed Hussein, Paschal Msindo, Dickson Job, Ibrahim Hamad, Wilson Nangu, Abdulrazack Hamza, Vedastus Masinde, Lameck Lawi
Clement Mzize, Mishano Michael, Ibrahim Hamad, Abdul Suleiman
Players features in 2020 Chan
Only four players—Manula, Kapombe, Feisal, and Abdulrazack—featured in the 2020 CHAN squad. For most, this is their first taste of CHAN action.
Burkina Faso squad ready for war
Burkina Faso’s head coach Issa Balboné brings a well-drilled side with players like Sanou Ladji, Konvelbo Mathieu, and Belem Enock. The coach exudes confidence:
“We’re in battle mode—no turning back now. My players are ready to fight and make Burkina Faso proud. CHAN has no easy opponents, and we respect Tanzania. But we are prepared.”
