Morocco secured their place in the quarter-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2025 after edging past a stubborn Tanzania side 1–0 in Rabat on Sunday night.
Brahim Diaz’s second-half strike proved decisive in a contest where the Atlas Lions enjoyed overwhelming possession but were repeatedly frustrated by Tanzania’s disciplined defensive approach.
Led by captain Achraf Hakimi, Morocco dominated the early exchanges but struggled to break down a compact Tanzanian block that limited space in the final third and forced the hosts into speculative efforts.
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The breakthrough appeared to arrive in the 24th minute when Ismail Saibari turned in a close-range finish, only for VAR to intervene and rule the goal out for offside, extending Morocco’s frustration as the first half ended scoreless.
Morocco returned from the interval with renewed urgency. Diaz went close with a header before Bilal El Khannouss fired narrowly over the bar as the pressure steadily increased.
Tanzania nearly shocked the home crowd midway through the second half when Feisal Toto found space inside the box but blazed his effort over the crossbar, missing a rare but golden opportunity.
Spurred on by the packed Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex, Morocco finally found the breakthrough in the 63rd minute. Diaz showed composure and skill, cutting inside and finishing from a tight angle to send the crowd into celebration.
The strike marked Diaz’s fourth goal of the tournament, placing him alone at the top of the scoring chart and reinforcing his growing influence in Morocco’s title push.
Despite continued pressure, the hosts were unable to extend their lead. Tanzania remained competitive to the end, but Morocco’s control and organisation ensured the narrow victory.
Morocco will now face Cameroon in the quarter-finals at the Stade Al Madina in Rabat.