Morroco got off to a winning start as they overcame Tanzania 3-0 in their opening Group F match of the Africa Cup of Nations at the Laurent Poku stadium in San Pedro on Wednesday.

Goals from Romain Saïss, Azz-Eddine Ounahi and Youssef En-Nesyri ensured a comfortable victory for the North Africans.

Morocco ranked 13th in the World were coming into the game as favorite against Tanzania who are number 121 in the world.

It was always going to be a tall order for the Taifa Stars and Adel Amrouche.

Morocco drew first blood after 30 minutes with Romain Saïss tapping in from a rebound after Aishi Manula failed to handle Hakim Ziyech’s hot free kick.

Ziyech went close five minutes later but Manula this time did well to push the ball out away from the attacking Morocco players.

For all the dominance, Walid Regragui’s men went into the interval with only a goal.

Tanzania looking to get back in the game were reduced to 10 men after Novatus Miroshi received a second yellow for a reckless challenge on Ounahi. It was now a huge mountain to climb for Tanzania.

And no surprise The Atlas Lions doubled their lead through Azz-Eddine Ounahi who slotted in after an intricate of passing movement.

Youssef En-Nesyri made it 3-0 moments later. His goal was ruled for offside by the on-field match officials. VAR intervened and the goal was given sparking celebrations on the bench just after he was substituted.

It was a night to forget for Tanzania as they failed to register a single shot on target.

Meanwhile, it was a routine victory for one of the tournament favorites Morocco.

Kelvin Trudeau Musako

Football Journalist | TotalEnergies AFCON 2021 Photographer | Media Officer - Kabwe Warriors FC | Graphic Designer | Videographer