Four players to watch in TotalEnergies CAF U17 AFCON final – Senegal v Tanzania

The stage is set for a captivating conclusion to the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations as defending champions Senegal face tournament surprise package Tanzania in Rabat. Both sides have navigated a demanding path to the final, demonstrating resilience, tactical discipline, and exceptional young talent along the way.

While team cohesion will ultimately determine who lifts the trophy, several individuals have consistently risen above the rest. These four players possess the quality to shape the final and leave a lasting impression on African football’s biggest youth stage.

Dismas Athanasi Shida (Tanzania)

Despite being the youngest player at the tournament at just 14 years old, Dismas Athanasi Shida has played with remarkable maturity.

The talented forward has emerged as Tanzania’s primary attacking threat, scoring three goals, including a memorable brace against Algeria. His pace, intelligent movement, and composure in front of goal have made him one of the competition’s breakout stars.

Shida thrives in transition, attacking space behind defenders with confidence beyond his years. If Tanzania are to make history by lifting their first-ever CAF U-17 AFCON title, much will depend on his ability to unlock Senegal’s disciplined defence.

Razaki Mbelegendi (Tanzania)

Creativity often determines finals, and Tanzania will once again look to Razaki Mbelegendi to provide it.

Operating from midfield, Mbelegendi has combined technical quality with an eye for goal, contributing two strikes during the group stage while consistently dictating the tempo of Tanzania’s attacks. His composure during high-pressure moments, particularly in penalty shootouts, underlines a mentality rarely seen in players of his age.

His battle against Senegal’s energetic midfield could prove decisive in determining which side controls possession and creates the better opportunities.

Assane Sarr (Senegal)

Goalkeepers often become heroes in tournament finals, and few arrive with stronger credentials than Senegal captain Assane Sarr.

The 16-year-old has produced one outstanding performance after another throughout the competition. He delivered a crucial penalty save in the quarter-finals before producing three more in the dramatic semi-final shootout against hosts Morocco, confirming his reputation as one of Africa’s finest young goalkeepers.

Beyond his shot-stopping ability, Sarr commands his penalty area with authority, organises the defence effectively, and displays remarkable composure under pressure. If the final once again extends to penalties, Senegal will draw enormous confidence from having him between the posts.

Souleymane Commissaire Faye (Senegal)

While his goals have come from the penalty spot, Souleymane Commissaire Faye’s influence extends far beyond statistics.

The gifted attacking midfielder serves as Senegal’s creative heartbeat, linking midfield and attack with intelligent movement, incisive passing, and excellent close control. Blessed with pace and exceptional vision, he consistently creates opportunities for teammates while remaining a constant threat around the penalty area.

His ability to dictate attacking rhythm could be the key to unlocking Tanzania’s organised defensive structure.

A Final Defined by Emerging Talent

The TotalEnergies CAF U-17 AFCON has once again highlighted the immense depth of African football’s next generation. Senegal arrive seeking to reinforce their reputation as one of the continent’s premier youth football nations, while Tanzania stand on the verge of making history with a maiden continental crown.

Regardless of the outcome, these four young stars have already announced themselves as players to watch in the years ahead. Their performances in Rabat may not only decide the destination of the trophy but could also mark the beginning of careers destined for the biggest clubs and competitions in world football.