Morocco beats Tanzania, sends hosts out of CHAN semi-finals

Tanzania’s African Nations Championship (CHAN) campaign came to an end following a 1-0 quarter-final defeat to Morocco at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam.

Oussama Lamlloui’s decisive strike secured Morocco’s victory, sending the Atlas Lions into the semi-finals alongside Madagascar, who had earlier eliminated Kenya in a penalty shootout at Kasarani Stadium.

The goal ignited celebrations among Moroccan fans, while Tanzanian supporters were left stunned into silence. Tanzania had matched Morocco’s intensity for much of the match, but Lamlloui’s strike proved decisive, ensuring Morocco’s passage to the last four.

Kenya and Tanzania have both exited the tournament.

For Morocco, the win not only brought relief but also momentum as they prepare for semi-finals. The Atlas Lions now have the chance to challenge for a spot in the final, carrying the hopes of their nation after a strong showing in the quarter-finals.

History of Morocco in CHAN

The Atlas Lions won the previous editions in 2018 and 2020, sharing the CHAN title record with DR Congo.

Since making their CHAN debut in 2014, Morocco has appeared in five editions — 2014, 2016, 2018, and 2020 — but did not take part in the 2022 tournament.

Ranked 12th in the FIFA world rankings, the team is led by coach Tarik Sektioui and is seeking to continue its dominant continental form.

Morocco became the first host nation to win CHAN in 2018 and also made history as the first country to win back-to-back titles.

The team is coached by Tarik Sektioui.

This year’s tournament started on August 2 and will run until August 30.

CHAN, short for Championnat d’Afrique des Nations — or African Nations Championship in English — features top domestic league players competing for continental glory.