Morocco Edge Tanzania to Reach AFCON Quarter-Finals

Hosts Morocco moved a step closer to ending their long wait for an Africa Cup of Nations title after beating Tanzania 1-0 to reach the quarter-finals.

Brahim Díaz scored the winning goal in the second half of a tense Round of 16 match, as Morocco were pushed hard by a well-organised and brave Tanzanian side.

Morocco thought they had taken an early lead when Ismael Saibari headed in from a left-wing cross inside the first 15 minutes. However, the goal was ruled out for offside after a check by the assistant referee.

The Atlas Lions controlled possession in the first half but found it difficult to break down Tanzania’s compact defence. Díaz and Ayoub El Kaabi both came close, but Morocco failed to record a shot on target before the break.

Tanzania, appearing in the knockout stages for the first time, stayed disciplined and calm, frustrating the home fans with their strong defensive display.

Morocco increased the tempo after half-time, and goalkeeper Hussein Masalanga was forced into an early save as he pushed away Abde Ezzalzouli’s close-range header.

Tanzania then missed a big chance to shock the hosts when Feisal Salum fired over the bar from a good position.

Achraf Hakimi hit the woodwork with a free-kick just after the hour mark as Morocco continued to apply pressure. The breakthrough finally came in the 64th minute when Díaz found space at the near post and squeezed his shot past Masalanga.

The goal settled Morocco, who managed the game well in the closing stages to secure a narrow but deserved win. Díaz has now scored four goals in four matches at the tournament.

Morocco will face either Cameroon or South Africa in the quarter-finals. Tanzania exit the competition with pride after a historic AFCON campaign.