Morocco will aim to continue their impressive run in the Africa Cup of Nations when they take on Tanzania in the round of 16 on Sunday. Softfootball reported that Morocco have already posted about the upcoming match on their X handle, highlighting their preparations to face the Taifa Stars after a strong first-round showing that saw them claim seven points from three matches, following their 3-0 victory over Zambia to reach the AFCON knockout stage.
The Atlas Lions are in confident form, having won seven of their last 10 matches across all competitions, with the others ending in draws. They also have the head-to-head advantage over Tanzania, winning seven of their previous eight encounters, with the Taifa Stars’ only victory coming in 2013.
Morocco’s strong performances, including draws against Mali , give them momentum heading into this knockout clash. They will play in front of a partisan home crowd, giving them what could feel like a 12th man advantage.
Team News
Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi is expected to start at right-back, having come off the bench in the previous game against Zambia. Romain Saiss remains doubtful due to a muscle injury. Ayoub El Kaabi’s three goals in as many matches make him a strong candidate to lead the line alongside Diaz and Saibari.
Tanzania are likely to stick with the XI that faced Tunisia, with Mbwana Samatta spearheading the attack and supported by Simon Msuva, Faisal Salum, and Haji Mnoga.
Possible Lineups
Morocco: Bono; Salah-Eddine, El Yamiq, Aguerd, Mazraoui; Ounahi, Amrabat, El Aynaoui; Saibari, El Kaabi, Diaz
Tanzania: Masalanga; Hussein, Hamad, Nwamnyeto, Job; Miroshi, Msanga; Msuva, Salum, Mnoga; Samatta
Softfootball Prediction
Morocco 2-0 Tanzania. The Atlas Lions’ dominance in the tournament and superior squad quality make them good value for victory, booking their place in the quarter-finals.
