TANZANIA: AGE preference in football is a crucial factor that shapes the dynamics of teams, influencing their performance on both national and club levels.
The recent success of Tanzania’s U-20 team in the CECAFA championship underscores the importance of investing in young talent.
With victory securing them a spot in the Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 finals, Tanzania stands at a pivotal moment where nurturing young talent can lead to long-term success.
The age profile of football teams often correlates with their performance. National teams, clubs and individual players have all showcased that youth can be a powerful asset.
For instance, Spain’s national team, with its core of young players during the 2008-2012 golden era, was able to secure two European Championships and a World Cup, emphasising the value of youthful energy and creativity. Conversely, teams that rely heavily on ageing players often struggled to compete against faster, more agile opponents.
In club football, age preference is also evident. The recent El Clásico match, where Barcelona defeated Real Madrid 4-0, serves as a prime example. Barcelona’s success was significantly bolstered by their young talents, such as Lamine Yamal, Gavi and Pedri, who not only showcased exceptional skill but also injected vibrancy into the team’s play.
The youthful exuberance of these players helped Barcelona dominate the match, highlighting the advantages of a younger squad that can adapt to dynamic game situations.
Landmark players and their impact
Examining individual players like Kylian Mbappé, Yamal and Erling Haaland reveals the monumental impact that young talent can have on both club and national teams.
Mbappé’s contributions to the French national team during their 2018 World Cup victory made him one of the youngest players to achieve such accolades. His speed, skill and maturity at a young age set a benchmark for aspiring footballers globally.
During the finals, Mbappé was just 19 years old, scoring four goals in the tournament, including one in the final against Croatia. His performances were instrumental in securing France’s second World Cup title, establishing him as one of the brightest young talents in football history.
Haaland’s journey in UEFA competitions began when he joined Red Bull Salzburg in January 2019. His time in Austria marked the turning point of his career, as he quickly made a name for himself on the European stage.
Haaland burst onto the UEFA scene during the 2019–20 season. In his first Champions League match for Salzburg, he scored a stunning hat-trick against Genk, becoming the youngest player to achieve such a feat in the competition’s history at just 19 years old. He finished the group stage with an astonishing eight goals, leading all players and setting a record for the most goals scored in a Champions League group stage by a teenager.
In January 2020, Haaland transferred to Borussia Dortmund and his impact was immediate. He scored a hat-trick in his debut match against Augsburg, becoming the fastest player to reach 20 goals in Bundesliga history.
Haaland made a high-profile move to Manchester City in the summer of 2022, transferring from Dortmund. In his first season he scored a staggering 36 goals in the Premier League, breaking the previous record for the most goals in a single season.
Yamal, at just 16 years old, became one of Spain’s youngest international players during UEFA Euro 2024 qualifiers. He scored one goal and provided an assist in the qualifying campaign, showcasing his immense talent and versatility. His performances indicate that he could play a significant role for Spain in future tournaments.
Case for Tanzania’s investment in youth
Tanzania’s recent triumph in the CECAFA U-20 tournament presents an opportunity to rethink the approach to youth football.
As the Minister for Culture, Arts and Sports, Damas Ndumbaro stated during the celebrations at KMC Stadium, investing in youth is crucial for the nation’s football future. His call to teams to channel resources into developing young talents is timely, especially with AFCON 2027 on the horizon.
Winning the CECAFA championship is not merely a trophy; it is a stepping stone toward greater achievements. The players who secured Tanzania’s spot in Under-20 AFCON 2025 are the future of the country’s football landscape.
However, success will not come from infrastructural development alone. Proper mentoring, coaching and creating competitive teams are vital for enhancing these young players’ professional quality.
To ensure the sustainable success of Tanzania’s U-20 champions, several strategies can be implemented:
Mentorship programmes Establishing mentorship programmes where experienced players guide young talents can significantly impact their growth. This relationship can help young players navigate the complexities of professional football, both on and off the pitch.
Investment in coaching
It is essential to invest in quality coaching staff who can nurture young talents. Coaches must be equipped to identify and develop individual skills while fostering teamwork.
Competitive exposure
Arranging friendly matches and tournaments with established teams will provide the U-20 players with invaluable experience. Competing against stronger opponents will help them adapt to higher levels of play and pressure.
Long-term development plans
As Tanzania prepares to host AFCON 2027, a comprehensive long-term development plan for youth football should be established. This plan should include not only training but also aspects like nutrition, mental health and career planning.
The age preference in football, particularly with respect to Tanzania’s recent U-20 success, illustrates the immense potential of young talent. By investing in youth through mentoring, quality coaching and competitive opportunities, Tanzania can build a formidable team capable of excelling in AFCON 2027 and beyond.
As highlighted by the Minister for Sports, prioritising youth development is not just an option; it is a necessity for the future of Tanzanian football. The focus on nurturing this young talent today will pay dividends in the form of professional, skilled players who can elevate the national team to new heights on the continental stage.
