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The African Nations Championship (CHAN) isn’t your typical tournament. What makes it unique? Only players who compete in their country’s domestic leagues can participate. That means you won't see the Mo Salahs or Riyad Mahrezs here—but you’ll witness raw, homegrown talent hungry to shine on the continental stage.
Held every two years, CHAN celebrates African football’s grassroots strength. And in 2025, the competition is fiercer than ever, especially in Group B, where Tanzania and Burkina Faso lock horns in Matchday 1.
Match Overview
Date, Time, and Venue
The big day is finally here: Today, at 5:00 PM, Tanzania takes on Burkina Faso in a Group B showdown. This match sets the tone for both sides in the group phase. While the official stadium is yet to be confirmed, CAF has ensured top-notch conditions for all games.
Tournament Context
This is Matchday 1 out of 5 in Group B, which means there’s still plenty of football ahead. But getting an early win is critical. Both teams are known to punch above their weight, so expect sparks from the first whistle.
Teams at a Glance
Tanzania National Team Overview
Squad Composition
Tanzania, also known as the Taifa Stars, brings in a dynamic squad largely composed of players from Young Africans SC and Simba SC, the powerhouses of Tanzanian football. Coach Hemed Morocco has selected a mix of experienced heads and exciting youngsters.
Coach and Playing Style
Under Hemed, Tanzania plays with a balanced 4-2-3-1 formation, focusing on solid defensive structure and quick counterattacks. The midfield is the engine, and their pace on the wings can hurt any defense.
Burkina Faso National Team Overview
Key Players and Rising Stars
Burkina Faso arrives with confidence and flair, boasting talents from clubs like ASFA Yennenga and Γtoile Filante. Midfielder Aboubacar Sawadogo and striker Zakaria Sanogo are names to watch—they're explosive and technically sharp.
Tactical Formation and Strategy
The Stallions often play a compact 4-3-3, using physicality and short-passing to dominate the midfield. Their pressing game can suffocate slower teams, so Tanzania must stay alert in transition.
Head-to-Head History
Past Encounters
Historically, the teams have only faced off a handful of times in CHAN qualifiers and friendlies. Burkina Faso holds a slight edge, but the margin is razor-thin.
Recent Form of Both Teams
Tanzania comes in after an impressive showing in regional friendlies, while Burkina Faso recently won a warm-up tournament hosted in Ouagadougou, going unbeaten in four games. Momentum is on their side.
Market Value of the Squads
Tanzania’s Market Valuation
While CHAN doesn’t include overseas-based stars, Tanzania’s squad value is estimated at €4.5 million, with key players like Stephane Aziz Ki leading the pack.
Burkina Faso’s Market Valuation
Burkina Faso edges slightly higher, with an estimated value of €5.7 million. This reflects greater depth and tactical versatility, especially in midfield and attack.
Broadcasting and Media Coverage
Where to Watch
Can’t make it to the stadium? No worries. You can watch the match live on:
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beIN Sports HD 1
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Sport TV1 Portugal
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Diema Sport 2 HD
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SuperSport Maximo 1
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Digi Sport 2 HD Romania
Global Audience Reach
CHAN may not have the glitz of the AFCON, but it's growing rapidly. These channels ensure millions across Africa, Europe, and even Asia catch every goal, tackle, and roar from the fans.
Players to Watch
Tanzania: Key Players to Keep an Eye On
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Stephane Aziz Ki – A midfield maestro with a knack for long passes.
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Dickson Job – A sturdy center-back, good in the air and on the ground.
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Feisal Salum – The playmaker who can unlock any defense.
Burkina Faso: Star Performers on Display
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Zakaria Sanogo – A winger with pace and vision.
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Aboubacar Sawadogo – Controls the tempo in midfield.
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Soumaila Ouattara – Solid defensively and dangerous during set pieces.
Tactical Breakdown and Expected Lineups
Tanzania’s Possible Lineup and Strategy
Likely XI:
Kigogo – Job, Mwamnyeto, Zimbwe, Hassan – Salum, Aziz Ki – Kibu, Mnzava, Msuva – Makame
Strategy: Sit deep, absorb pressure, and hit with pace down the flanks.
Burkina Faso’s Predicted Formation
Probable XI:
Sawadogo – Ouattara, KonatΓ©, Kone, Zongo – Nikiema, Sanogo, Badolo – Coulibaly, OuΓ©draogo, TourΓ©
Game Plan: Dominate possession, press high, and shoot from distance.
Fan Expectations and Atmosphere
Support from Home Crowds
Tanzania enjoys strong support from home fans, who are expected to fill the stadium and create a carnival-like atmosphere.
The Role of CHAN in African Football Identity
CHAN gives players a platform to showcase talent without needing European exposure. It's Africa’s homegrown pride—a stepping stone to greatness.
Match Predictions and Possible Outcomes
Likely Scenarios
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A tight 1-1 draw with late drama.
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Burkina Faso sneaking a 2-1 win via set pieces.
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Or Tanzania pulling off a surprise with a clean sheet and a narrow win.
What’s at Stake?
Winning the first match means control of Group B, and avoiding pressure in future games. The loser? They’ll be fighting an uphill battle.
Conclusion
This match between Tanzania and Burkina Faso isn’t just about points—it’s about pride, growth, and the future of African football. CHAN 2025 offers a raw, authentic glimpse into the continent’s footballing soul, and this clash will undoubtedly deliver moments to remember.
So whether you’re tuning in from Dar es Salaam or Ouagadougou, get ready for 90 minutes of heart, hustle, and heroics.
FAQs
1. What is the African Nations Championship (CHAN)?
CHAN is a continental football tournament for players active in their domestic African leagues. Unlike AFCON, no foreign-based stars are allowed.
2. Who are the favorites to win CHAN 2025?
It’s too early to say, but Morocco, Ghana, and Mali are always contenders.
3. How can I watch Tanzania vs Burkina Faso live?
You can watch it on beIN Sports HD 1, Sport TV1 Portugal, and other international channels listed above.
4. Who has the better squad in terms of market value?
Burkina Faso has a slightly higher squad value, but Tanzania is not far behind.
5. Are the matches available on streaming platforms?
Yes! Most sports broadcasters now offer streaming via official apps and websites, so check with your local provider.