The 2026 TotalEnergies CAF U17 Africa Cup of Nations has delivered a tournament filled with emerging talent, dramatic matches and memorable performances, with only two teams now left standing ahead of Tuesday’s final in Rabat.
Defending champions Senegal national under-17 football team will face Tanzania national under-17 football team in a match that could either reinforce Senegal’s dominance in African youth football or see Tanzania make history by becoming the first Tanzanian national side to win a TotalEnergies CAF AFCON title.
Both teams have relied heavily on standout individual displays during their journeys to the final, and with the contest expected to be decided by narrow margins, several young players are likely to carry the hopes of their nations.
Here are four players who have emerged as key figures ahead of the championship decider.
Dismas Athanasi Shida Leading Tanzania’s Attack
Dismas Athanasi Shida has become one of the breakthrough stars of the tournament despite being the youngest player competing in Morocco at only 14 years old.
The Tanzanian attacking midfielder has already scored three goals during the competition and has consistently provided creativity in the final third.
His performances drew significant attention during Tanzania’s thrilling 3-3 draw against Algeria national under-17 football team, where he scored twice in a display that highlighted both his composure and attacking instincts.
Shida also found the net earlier in the tournament during Tanzania’s victory over Mozambique national under-17 football team in the group stage.
Despite his age, he has shown confidence and maturity throughout the competition and is expected to remain one of Tanzania’s main attacking threats in the final.
Razaki Mbelegendi Emerging as Tanzania’s Midfield Leader
Another important figure for Tanzania has been midfielder Razaki Mbelegendi, whose performances have strengthened expectations surrounding his future.
Mbelegendi scored twice during the group stage, finding the net against both Mozambique and Angola national under-17 football team.
He also demonstrated composure under pressure during Tanzania’s quarter-final victory over Algeria, converting a penalty in the shootout to help secure qualification for the semi-finals.
Although he missed Tanzania’s opening penalty in the semi-final against Egypt national under-17 football team, his overall contribution throughout the match proved influential as the East Africans eventually progressed after another dramatic shootout.
His energy and technical quality in midfield could again prove decisive against Senegal.
Assane Sarr Providing Security for Senegal
Goalkeeper Assane Sarr has been one of Senegal’s standout performers during the tournament.
The 16-year-old has delivered several crucial saves, particularly in knockout matches, helping keep Senegal’s title defence alive.
Although he conceded an own goal and a deflected effort during the match against South Africa national under-17 football team, Sarr’s overall display still earned praise because of his commanding presence and reflexes.
He played a decisive role in Senegal’s quarter-final victory over Mali national under-17 football team by saving a penalty during the shootout.
Sarr then delivered another outstanding performance in the semi-finals against hosts Morocco national under-17 football team, stopping three penalties to guide Senegal into the final.
His acrobatic saves and ability to read the game are expected to be vital once again in Rabat.
Souleymane Commissaire Faye Driving Senegal Forward
Forward Souleymane Commissaire Faye has also emerged as one of Senegal’s most influential attacking players.
Although both his goals in the tournament have come from the penalty spot, the number 10 has impressed with his overall contribution to the team’s attacking play.
Faye has consistently created opportunities for teammates while displaying strong technical ability throughout the competition.
His pace, dribbling and passing range have made him a key figure for Senegal, particularly during difficult moments when composure has been required.
As Senegal and Tanzania prepare for the final match of the tournament, the performances of these four players could play a defining role in deciding who lifts the continental title in Rabat.
