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Sopu makes history as first scorer in CHAN 2024 opener at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium

By  Majuto Omary

Sports Reporter

Mwananchi Communications Ltd

Dar es Salaam. Abdul Suleiman "Sopu" etched his name into the history books on Saturday night, August 2, 2025 as the first player to score a goal in the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), sending home fans into wild celebrations at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.

Sopu found the back of the net in the 45+3rd minute from the penalty spot, coolly converting after a foul on Taifa Stars forward Clement Mzize inside the box.

The incident occurred when Mzize attempted to dribble past Burkina Faso defender Aime Tologo, who tripped him just before the half-time whistle. Algerian referee Lotfi Bekouassa did not hesitate to point to the spot, awarding Tanzania the crucial penalty.

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With the stadium roaring in anticipation, Sopu stepped up confidently and fired past the goalkeeper to give Taifa Stars a 1-0 lead at the break.

The goal sparked jubilant scenes among thousands of fans who packed the national stadium to witness their team in the tournament opener.

The first half was dominated by Taifa Stars, who controlled possession and dictated the tempo of the game. Statistics from the opening 45 minutes showed Tanzania held 63.2 perentage of the ball, compared to 36.8 percentage for Burkina Faso.

The hosts created several attacking chances through the midfield brilliance of Mudathir Yahya and Feisal Salum, while Yusuph Kagoma and Iddi Seleman offered pace and width on the flanks.

Despite their dominance, the match was not without tension. Midfielder Mudathir Yahya was shown a yellow card for a clumsy challenge in the 32nd minute, becoming the first Tanzanian player to be booked in the tournament.

The goal by Sopu is not only a personal milestone but also a moment of national pride, as it marks Tanzania's first goal on home soil in this year’s CHAN.

The match, which officially kicked off Group B fixtures, saw both sides fighting hard for early momentum in the tournament.

As the second half looms, Taifa Stars fans are hopeful that their team will maintain the lead and begin their campaign with a morale-boosting victory.

With solid defending and energetic support from the home crowd, Tanzania’s dream of progressing further in CHAN 2024 is off to a promising start.

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