Morocco edge past Tanzania to advance to Quarterfinals
Morocco edged past Tanzania 1–0 in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Round of 16, thanks to a decisive strike from Brahim Díaz in the 64th minute. The Atlas Lions dominated possession and controlled the tempo, while Tanzania struggled to create clear chances.
At the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, Morocco booked their place in the AFCON quarterfinals with a narrow but deserved 1–0 victory over Tanzania. The game was tense and physical, with Morocco’s technical superiority eventually breaking down Tanzania’s resilient defensive block. Brahim Díaz’s well-taken goal midway through the second half proved to be the difference, sending the home crowd into raptures.
The opening 45 minutes were cagey, with Morocco enjoying the lion’s share of possession but struggling to penetrate Tanzania’s compact 3-4-3 setup. Achraf Hakimi and Noussair Mazraoui pushed forward from full-back, creating width, while Ayoub El Kaabi tested goalkeeper Aishi Manula with a couple of early efforts. Tanzania’s best chance came from Simon Msuva, whose shot in the 4th minute forced Yassine Bounou into a save. Despite Morocco’s dominance, the score remained 0–0 at halftime.
The breakthrough arrived in the 64th minute when Hakimi surged down the right flank and delivered a precise assist for Brahim Díaz. The midfielder controlled calmly before slotting past Manula to give Morocco the lead. Tanzania attempted to respond with more attacking intent, but Morocco’s defense, marshaled by Nayef Aguerd and Adam Masina, held firm. Substitutions from both sides added energy, yet Morocco maintained control of the rhythm.
The match was marked by physical battles, with Tanzania picking up five yellow cards compared to Morocco’s single booking. Novatus Miroshi and Ibrahim Hamad were among those cautioned as Tanzania tried to disrupt Morocco’s fluid passing game. The Atlas Lions kept their composure, avoiding unnecessary fouls and ensuring they stayed in control of the contest.
Morocco’s dominance was reflected in the numbers: 71% possession, 12 total shots (4 on target), and 4 corner kicks. Tanzania managed just 4 attempts, with only 1 on target, and failed to win a single corner. Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou made 1 save, while Manula was busier with 3 stops. Morocco’s midfield trio of El Aynaoui, Saibari, and El Khannouss dictated play, recycling possession and keeping Tanzania pinned back.
With this victory, Morocco advanced to the quarterfinals to face Cameroon reaffirming their status as one of the tournament favorites. Their ability to control matches through possession and patience was evident, though they will need to be more clinical in front of goal against stronger opponents. Tanzania, meanwhile, exit the competition with pride, having shown resilience but ultimately lacking the attacking firepower to trouble Morocco’s defense.
