Morocco stamps more misery to Tanzania's depressing record at AFCON finals

Action between Morocco and Tanzania | COURTESY IMAGO

Morocco stamps more misery to Tanzania's depressing record at AFCON finals

Allan Damba • 21:15 - 17.01.2024

The Taifa Stars have now gone seven matches across three AFCON campaigns without victory.

Morocco got their 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign to a flying start with a dominant 3-0 win over 10-man Tanzania at the Laurent Pokou Stadium, San Pedro.

The Wednesday result means Tanzania still await their first-ever win at an Africa Cup of Nations tournament.

Mchezaji wa Taifa Stars, Simon Msuva (kushoto), akiwania mpira na Kiungo wa Morocco, Sofyan Amrabat

The Taifa Stars have now gone seven matches across three AFCON campaigns without victory.

On the evening in San Pedro, Hakim Ziyech, who had been a threat in the early stages, was involved in Morocco’s opener, as his stinging free-kick from distance was too hot to handle for goalkeeper Aishi Manula, who could only parry the effort into the path of a grateful Romain Saïss, who made no mistake in turning home.

Morocco’s task of laying the game to rest was given a boost 20 minutes from time when the Taifa Stars were reduced to 10 men, Novatus Miroshi was sent off for a second bookable offence.

Morocco players celebrate a goal against Tanzania|IMAGO

With 13 minutes to go, Azzedine Ounahi darted in the area and stroked home to double Morocco's advantage.

Three minutes later, Sevilla's Youssef En-Nesyri added to Tanzania's cut, slotting past Simba SC custodian Manura.

Tanzania will return to make amends in their next match against Zambia on January 21.

On the other hand, on the same day, Morocco will be keen on sealing the deal when they tussle it out with Sebastien Desabre's Democratic Republic of Congo.