Tanzania and Madagascar sail through as Group B concludes

Tanzania's football fans gears the national team Taifa Stars during match against Central African Republic (CAR) on August 16, 2025. [Kipsang Joseph, Standard]

The battle for supremacy in Group B of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) came to an end in Dar es Salaam on Saturday August 16.

Tanzania and Madagascar booking their spots in the quarterfinals after consistent and disciplined displays with the Taifa Stars of Tanzania emerged as the standout performers, topping the group with 10 points from four matches.

Their campaign began with a solid 2-0 win over Burkina Faso on August 2, setting the tone for what would be a dominant run.

A narrow but crucial 1-0 victory against Mauritania followed on August 6, before they edged Madagascar 2-1 in an entertaining fixture on August 9.

On the final day, Tanzania sealed top spot after a goalless draw against the Central African Republic (CAR).

Their tally of five goals scored and just two conceded showcased their balance between attack and defense.

Mauritania also failed to qualify for the quarterfinals because of goal difference. Despite starting with a 0-0 draw against Madagascar, they stumbled against Tanzania in a 1-0 defeat. However, they quickly recovered, grinding out back-to-back wins 1-0 against CAR on August 9 and another 1-0 against Burkina Faso on August 13.

Burkina Faso players during their Group B match in Tanzania. [Kipsang Joseph, Standard]

With only two goals scored in four matches, Mauritania's campaign has been built on resilience and defensive solidity. Captain Aboubakar Kamara noted, "We may not score many, but we are difficult to break. Every match is a final, and we fight until the end."

Burkina Faso, who at one point looked like strong contenders after their 4-2 win over CAR, finished with just four points following a three defeats. Their tally of five goals scored and six conceded highlighted their attacking flair but also defensive weaknesses that proved costly.

Madagascar, put up a spirited fight, collecting five points after drawing with Mauritania, losing narrowly to Tanzania, defeating CAR 2-0, and defeating Burkina Faso 2-1. Despite their resilience, it wasn't enough to secure qualification.

The Central African Republic endured a torrid campaign, finishing bottom with just one point. They conceded seven goals and managed only three, their sole highlight being a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Tanzania in the final round.

The Taifa Stars will now look to extend their fairytale run, while Mauritania will aim to surprise their next opponents with their dogged defensive approach.