Morocco edge past Tanzania to secure AFCON quarter-final spot

Morocco edge past Tanzania to secure AFCON quarter-final spot

Hosts Morocco advanced to the quarter-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Tanzania in Sunday’s Round of 16 clash. Backed by a vocal home crowd, the Atlas Lions controlled possession but struggled to break down a disciplined Tanzanian defence in a tense opening half.

Morocco thought they had taken an early lead through Ismael Saibari, but the goal was ruled out for offside following a VAR review. Tanzania remained compact and resilient, with goalkeeper Hussein Masalanga putting in an assured performance, while Simon Msuva squandered their best first-half chance with a missed header.

The decisive moment came in the 64th minute when Achraf Hakimi supplied a precise pass for Brahim Díaz, who finished calmly from a tight angle. Tanzania pushed forward late in search of an equalizer, but Morocco’s defense held firm to secure progression, leaving the East Africans to bow out after a spirited display.

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