Zanzibar crowned African Nations Cup UK 2025 champions after dramatic penalty shootout

June 24, 2025 in Foreign News by Editor

Champions: Zanzibar 🇹🇿
Youth Champions: Zimbabwe 🇿🇼

Zanzibar emerged victorious at the African Nations Cup UK 2025, lifting the coveted trophy after a tense goalless final against Gambia that was decided by penalties. The East African islanders held their nerve to win 4-2 in the shootout, marking a historic triumph in a tournament filled with flair, drama, and diaspora pride. The event, staged on June 21-22, was sponsored by expanding African lender Equity Bank.

The final, played on Sunday evening at the Bobby Moore Sports Hub in Dagenham, London, was a tactical and physical battle, with both sides unable to break the deadlock during regulation time. Gambia, who had stunned Madagascar 3-0 in the semi-finals, came into the match as slight favourites, but Zanzibar proved resolute in defence and clinical from the spot.

Zanzibar’s road to the final was equally dramatic. After a goalless semi-final against Ghana, they prevailed again via penalties—also winning 4-2—to book their place in Sunday’s showdown. Their consistency under pressure ultimately delivered the trophy.

Elsewhere in the youth competition, Zimbabwe’s young guns dominated, thrashing Somaliland 4-1 to claim the Youth Championship. Their commanding display capped off a strong showing throughout the tournament and underscored the strength of youth development within the southern African nation’s diaspora.

For Uganda, this year’s tournament brought disappointment. The Cranes lost their opening match 1-3 to Benin on Saturday and later fell 0-2 to Ghana, ending their campaign in the group stage. Benin, meanwhile, had a rollercoaster tournament—beating Uganda but suffering a heavy 0-5 loss to Madagascar.

Other notable results included Gambia’s dramatic 2-1 win over Nigeria, which helped them top their group and build momentum enroute to the final. Ghana also impressed, defeating Uganda and giving Zanzibar a tough fight in the semi-final.

Organised as a celebration of African unity, talent, and identity in the diaspora, the African Nations Cup UK 2025 drew enthusiastic crowds, vibrant cultural displays, and high-stakes football across two age categories. The event reinforced the value of sport in strengthening diaspora bonds and showcasing African excellence abroad.

Zanzibar’s triumph stands as a proud moment for the island’s community in the UK and beyond—proof that determination, teamwork, and spirit can prevail on the biggest stage.