Tanzania hands China first defeat at U17 international tournament

YINCHUAN, July 8 (Xinhua) -- China lost 2-0 to Tanzania on Tuesday in the four-nation CFA Team China International Youth Football Tournament.

Tanzania, runner-up at the 2026 U17 Africa Cup of Nations, controlled much of the match with pace and physicality. After Hasani Mussa Kizinga struck the crossbar from a 38th-minute penalty, he made amends just before halftime with a long-range strike to give Tanzania the lead.

China showed greater attacking intent after the break but struggled to break down Tanzania's organized defense. Tanzania had a goal disallowed for offside in the 69th minute before Dismas Shida Athanasi capitalized on a defensive error deep into stoppage time to seal the victory.

China coach Bin Ukishima said Tanzania's speed, physical strength, individual quality and tactical discipline posed major problems for his side.

"Non-African teams need to learn how to deal with the African style of play," Ukishima said, adding that China must improve its defensive organization and transition play ahead of the 2026 FIFA U17 World Cup.

China will face Spain, Fiji and Morocco in Group H at the tournament in Qatar from November 19 to December 13.

"Tanzania gave us valuable World Cup-level experience. It was a very useful simulation match," Ukishima said.

Captain Zhou Yunuo said China created chances early but struggled to sustain its attacking rhythm as fatigue set in.

"This was a valuable lesson for us before the World Cup," Zhou said.

Tanzania coach Elieneza Nicolaus Nsanganzelu praised China's technical ability and tactical flexibility, saying his team's preparation and man-marking strategy were key to the win.

In Tuesday's other match, Australia defeated Nigeria 4-2. China, which beat Australia 3-0 in its opening game, will face Nigeria on Friday. Enditem