Taifa Stars extend lead as Hussein nets second against Burkina Faso
Dar es Salaam. The Benjamin Mkapa Stadium erupted once again as Mohamed Hussein, famously known as "Tshabalala," scored Taifa Stars’ second goal to extend their lead to 2-0 against Burkina Faso in their CHAN 2024 Group B opener on Saturday, August 2, 2025.
The crucial goal came in the 74th minute, following a brilliant through ball from midfielder Idd Suleiman "Nado." Hussein—who is set to switch from Simba SC to Young Africans (Yanga SC) next season—timed his run perfectly and met the pass with a well-placed header, calmly steering the ball past the Burkinabe defense and into the net.
However, the celebrations were briefly put on hold. Algerian referee Lotfi Bekouassa halted play for two minutes to consult VAR and verify whether Hussein was in an offside position when the pass was made. After a thorough review, the goal was allowed to stand, sparking loud cheers of relief and celebration among the home supporters.
It was a defining moment for both Hussein and the Taifa Stars. The goal not only doubled Tanzania’s advantage but also emphasized the team’s attacking sharpness and composure in a high-stakes tournament opener.
Hussein’s strike added to Abdul Suleiman "Sopu’s" earlier goal, a penalty in first-half stoppage time that had given Taifa Stars a 1-0 lead at halftime. With the stadium buzzing and confidence rising, Tanzania looked in firm control as the match entered its closing stages.
The link-up between Nado and Tshabalala highlighted the cohesion, vision, and creativity in the Tanzanian squad—an encouraging sign as the Taifa Stars aim to make a bold impression in the 2024 CHAN finals.
