Morocco Pips Tanzania, Qualify For AFCON Quarterfinal

Morocco Pips Tanzania, Qualify For AFCON Quarterfinal

Sampson Adedeji

Host nation Morocco booked their place in the quarterfinals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after edging past Tanzania 1-0 in a tightly contested Round of 16 encounter on Sunday in Rabat, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Real Madrid forward Brahim Díaz proved to be the difference, scoring the decisive goal to send the Atlas Lions through at the expense of a resilient Taifa Stars side.

The breakthrough came after a prolonged period of Tanzanian resistance, as the East Africans put in a disciplined and well-organised defensive display that frustrated the home side for large spells of the game.

Díaz eventually found the opening when he showed quick footwork inside the penalty area, dancing past his marker before drilling a low effort beyond goalkeeper Hussein Masalanga.

Despite late pressure from Tanzania in search of an equaliser, Morocco held firm to secure the narrow victory and continue their quest for continental glory on home soil.

The Atlas Lions will now turn their attention to the quarterfinals as they aim to capitalise on home advantage in their bid to lift the AFCON trophy.