East Africa’s presence at the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2025 came to an end on Sunday night after Tanzania were edged out 1–0 by hosts Morocco in a tense Round of 16 clash in Rabat.
Brahim Diaz’s second-half strike proved the difference, sending Morocco into the quarter-finals and confirming that there will be no East African teams left in the tournament.
Uganda, the other regional representative, had already bowed out at the group stage, leaving Tanzania as the final flag bearer before their narrow defeat.
Despite the result, Tanzania left the competition with heads held high after pushing the hosts all the way in front of a packed Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex. The Taifa Stars produced a disciplined and organised performance, frustrating Morocco for long spells and limiting clear-cut chances, particularly in the first half.
Morocco dominated possession but struggled to break down Tanzania’s compact defence, with an Ismail Saibari goal in the 24th minute ruled out for offside following a VAR review. The first half ended goalless, underlining Tanzania’s resolve and tactical discipline.
The hosts eventually found the breakthrough in the 63rd minute when Diaz cut in and finished from a tight angle, scoring his fourth goal of the tournament. Even then, Tanzania refused to collapse and continued to press for an equaliser.
Tensions peaked in the final minute when Tanzania were left furious after strong appeals for a penalty were waved away by the officials, sparking visible frustration on the bench and among players on the pitch. The decision effectively ended Tanzania’s hopes of forcing extra time and capped an evening of near-misses for the East Africans.
Earlier in the second half, Feisal Toto had missed a golden opportunity to stun the hosts, blazing over from inside the box when unmarked — a chance that could have changed the complexion of the match.
Speaking after the game, Tanzania head coach Miguel Ángel Gamondi praised his players’ effort and belief, insisting the gap between his side and one of Africa’s heavyweights is narrowing.
“I am so proud of what my team produced, both in their attitude and tactically,” Gamondi said. “They showed that the gap between Morocco and us is not as big as people think. We will come back stronger.”
Morocco now advance to the quarter-finals, where they will face the winner of South Africa versus Cameroon.
