Serengeti Boys’ coach shifts focus on Uganda showdown

Dar es Salaam. After a 4-1 loss to Zambia, Tanzania’s U-17 national football team, the Serengeti Boys, head coach Aggrey Morris has shifted his focus to crucial match against Uganda in the U-17 CAF Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) 2025.

The match will take place on Thursday at Bashir Mohammed Stadium in Mohammedia, Morocco, at 8pm East African Time.

Speaking after the defeat, Morris said all the mistakes that led to Zambia scoring four goals have been addressed, and he promised a strong response against Uganda.

"We had control of the game against Zambia, but a lack of concentration allowed them to score easy goals," Morris said.

"We made mistakes and conceded goals from counterattacks. My players regret that and have promised to come back stronger."

He added that the team is aware of Uganda’s strengths and weaknesses and is confident of putting on a better performance.

"We understand Uganda’s strengths, despite their 5-0 loss to the hosts, Morocco. This match is crucial for us as we aim to qualify for the next stage of the competition," he said.

 The Group A clash is expected to be a thrilling contest, given the competitive nature of both teams in youth football.

"All players are in high spirits and ready to deliver their best performance. We respect Uganda, but we are not intimidated. We have prepared well and are determined to give our best," said Morris.

The Serengeti Boys have made remarkable progress in recent years, and their participation in this year’s Afcon marks another step in their development. With a squad of talented youngsters eager to make an impact, Tanzania will be looking to make history by advancing deep into the tournament.

Serengeti Boys’ final group-stage match will be against Morocco on April 6 at 11 p.m. East African Time.

The tournament format dictates that the top two teams from each group, along with the four best third-placed teams across all groups, will advance to the quarterfinals.

This means every point is crucial for Tanzania’s chances of progressing to the next stage. Group B consists of Cameroon, Burkina Faso, South Africa, and Egypt. Group C features Senegal, Gambia, Somalia, and Tunisia, while Group D includes Mali, Angola, Ivory Coast, and the Central African Republic.

The quarterfinals will commence on April 10, followed by the semifinals, with the final set for April 19.