AFCON 2025: Morocco advanced to quarter-finals with 1–0 victory over Tanzania

Morocco players celebrate winning goal against Tanzania at AFCON 2025. Credit: CAF

Diaz scored lone goal for Morocco.

Morocco booked their place in the quarter-finals of the CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2025 after edging Tanzania 1–0 in Rabat on Sunday, with Brahim Diaz’s second-half goal proving decisive.

The Atlas Lions dominated possession throughout the Round of 16 encounter but were made to work hard by a disciplined Tanzanian side that defended compactly and limited clear-cut chances.

Captained by Achraf Hakimi for the first time at this edition of the tournament, Morocco controlled the early exchanges but struggled to convert their territorial advantage.

Tanzania sat deep, closed spaces effectively and frustrated the hosts in the final third.

Morocco thought they had broken the deadlock in the 24th minute when Ismail Saibari tapped in from close range, but the goal was ruled out for offside following a VAR review, leaving the score goalless at the break.

They eventually made the breakthrough in the 63rd minute when Diaz cut inside and finished from a tight angle to spark celebrations among the home supporters.

It was Diaz’s fourth goal of the tournament, moving him clear at the top of the scoring chart and further highlighting his influence on Morocco’s title push.

Despite continued pressure, the hosts were unable to extend their lead, while Tanzania battled on until the final whistle but could not find an equaliser.

Morocco will now face the winner of the Round of 16 clash between South Africa and Cameroon in the quarter-finals at the Stade Al Madina in Rabat.