CAN 2025: Morocco suffers but passes, heading to the quarter-finals

It took nerves of steel at the Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex. From the kick-off, the intensity was palpable, with Morocco seeking to smother their opponent from the start. The supporters thought there would be a quick liberation when Ismaïl Saibari shook the nets with a header in the 15th minute, but the VAR came to dampen the general enthusiasm by signaling an offside position. This emotional roller coaster seemed to jam the Moroccan machine against a perfectly organized Tanzanian block, which did not hesitate to sting on the counterattack.

The first half ended with a blank score, marked by the haste of the Moroccan attackers in the final gesture and the vigilance of the Tanzanian goalkeeper. Upon returning from the locker rooms, the scenario remained uncertain, with Yassine Bounou also having to work to reassure his defense. The specter of a trap match loomed over Rabat, until the flash of genius in the 64th minute. It is the inevitable Brahim Díaz who forced the lock, scoring his fourth goal of the competition and liberating an entire people.

This goal thwarted the plans of the Tanzanian coach, who was apparently hoping to take the Lions into extra time. The end of the match was breathless, with Tanzania throwing all its forces into the battle to equalize, while Morocco tried unsuccessfully to secure a second goal. At the final whistle, relief prevailed over the manner. Qualified, Morocco is now eagerly awaiting its next opponent: it will be the winner of the South Africa - Cameroon clash, for a quarter-final scheduled for Friday, January 9 in this same Rabat venue.