A-Leagues midfielder the hero on debut in Tanzania’s World Cup qualifying triumph

Macarthur FC’s Charles M’Mombwa scored the winning goal in Tanzania’s 1-0 victory over Niger in the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup
qualifying matches, making his international debut an unforgettable one. His deflected 56th-minute strike proved to be
the deciding factor in a close game against fellow CAF rivals, Niger, on Sunday (AEDT).

Receiving the ball on the edge of the area, the 25-year-old midfielder fired a shot across goal that took a wicked deflection,
securing the winning goal for Tanzania in the opening clash of their World Cup qualifying campaign.

M’Mombwa played 68 minutes in the victory as Tanzania now turns its attention to a blockbuster fixture against
Morocco.

Following the game, M’Mombwa expressed his gratitude in a video shared by CAF, saying “Thank you everyone.” He continued, “Thank
you Tanzania for the support. We didn’t know if it would be possible to win this game, so thank you.”

Having played for Macarthur since 2020, M’Mombwa made his professional debut for Central Coast Mariners in an Australia Cup
fixture two years prior. He has made one appearance for Mile Sterjovski’s high-flying Bulls through four rounds this season,
having played 14 games in 2022-23.