Tanzania — Morocco : Match Preview and Prediction for August 22,2025

Tanzania’s Group Stage Performance

Let’s delve into the facts. Tanzania indeed progressed from their group, becoming the first team to secure a place in the knockout stage. However, a deeper dive into their journey and the caliber of their opposition is warranted. Their group rivals included Burkina Faso, Madagascar, Mauritania, and debutants from the Central African Republic – hardly formidable continental powerhouses.

A Concerning Draw

The euphoria from three consecutive victories seems to have inadvertently backfired on the team. In their last match, which was inconsequential for qualification, against CAR – a team that had previously failed to secure a single point – Tanzania revealed its vulnerabilities. The encounter concluded in a goalless draw, a most concerning wake-up call for the tournament hosts.

Struggles in Attack

The statistics from that game speak volumes. Despite holding a dominant 68% possession, Tanzanian players unleashed 16 shots towards goal, yet only 3 of these were on target. This highlights significant issues with converting chances when an opponent constructs a compact defense. And this was against the group’s clear underdog.

Morocco: A Different Caliber

The ‘Atlas Lions’ operate on an entirely different level. These two-time CHAN champions navigated their way to the quarterfinals through a truly arduous group. Their quartet included another two-time champion, DR Congo, the 2011 CHAN finalists from Angola, and a robust Kenyan national team.

Clinching Victory Under Pressure

The Moroccans sealed their progression to the playoffs in a decisive match against DR Congo, which their own coach, Tarik Sektioui, described as a true final. In this ‘final,’ Morocco demonstrated composure and sheer class, securing a convincing 3-1 victory. The team remained unshaken under pressure, displaying exceptional attacking efficiency.

Clinical Efficiency and Experience

Observe the figures from their game against the Congolese: a mere 6 shots on goal, of which 4 were on target, and an impressive 3 resulted in goals. The second half was particularly telling; with the score at 1-1, Moroccans seized the initiative, earned a penalty, and effectively sealed their opponent’s fate. Players like Oussama Lamlaoui, who netted a brace, possess the requisite experience to decide knockout fixtures.