Tanzania sealed a thrilling 3-2 victory over Cameroon to reach the final of the inaugural Women’s Futsal Africa Cup of Nations and secure a historic qualification for the first-ever FIFA Women’s Futsal World Cup in the Philippines later this year.
Played at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Hall in Rabat, the semi-final clash was a hard-fought battle. The first half ended goalless, thanks to excellent saves from both goalkeepers — Cameroon’s Ngah and Tanzania’s Abass — who kept their teams in the game with several crucial stops.
The second half erupted with action. Tanzanian captain Viohlet opened the scoring in the 32nd minute with a dazzling solo goal, but Cameroon’s Pekure responded just moments later to level the match.
Tanzania suffered a setback when Zawadi was sent off following a clash with Cameroon’s Happy, reducing them to four players. Despite being a player down, Tanzania regained the lead with a goal from Mnunka just four minutes before full time.
Cameroon hit back quickly again, with Beulou converting Mbomozomo’s cross to make it 2-2 in the 37th minute. But Tanzania responded instantly, as Katunzi Junior netted a powerful finish on the counter to seal the dramatic win.
With the victory, Tanzania become the first team to qualify for the final of the maiden Women’s Futsal AFCON and the first African nation to book a place at the Women’s Futsal World Cup. They will now face the winner of the second semi-final between Angola and hosts Morocco.
