Tanzania is set to host Morocco at Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium on Tuesday night in CAF World Cup qualifiers, with the Kilimanjaro Stars aiming for back-to-back wins at the beginning of their potential road to North America.
Match preview:
In a competitive Group E that includes Morocco, Zambia, Congo, and Niger, Tanzania secured a narrow opening-day victory against Niger at Stade de Marrakech. Charles M’Mombwa’s goal in the second period, combined with Simba goalkeeper Aishi Manula’s clean sheet, earned Tanzania three crucial points in the revamped qualification format for the 2026 World Cup.
After finishing behind Algeria in their Africa Cup of Nations qualifying group, Adel Amrouche’s side seeks a flawless World Cup qualifying campaign. Tanzania’s history against Morocco is limited, with the hosts winning 3-1 in their last meeting at Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium in March 2013.
Morocco, following their impressive run to the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, anticipates securing their place in the 2026 edition. They begin their North American mission after a delay caused by Eritrea’s withdrawal from the qualification process.
The Atlas Lions, with star names like Sofyan Amrabat and Bono securing lucrative moves, had a mixed 2023, beating Brazil but experiencing less-than-inspiring draws. Morocco’s key players aim to continue their success from the last World Cup.
Team News:
Tanzania is expected to maintain a similar lineup to the one that defeated Niger, with Haji Mnoga and Bakari Nondo in the heart of the defense. Sospeter Bajana, Ibrahim Hamad, and Simon Msuva are likely to form the midfield trio.
Morocco may include Azzedine Ounahi, despite not featuring for Marseille recently due to injury. Sofiane Diop, making his debut for the Atlas Lions, could contribute to their attacking options. Youssef En-Nesyri aims to climb the nation’s all-time scoring charts.
Tanzania possible starting lineup:
Manula; Dickson, Nondo, Mnoga, Miroshi; Msuva, Hamad, Bajana; Samatta, M’Mombwa, Salum
Morocco possible starting lineup:
Bono; Hakimi, Aguerd, Saiss, Attiyat Allah; Azzouzi, Harit, Ounahi; Khannous, En-Nesyri, Kaabi
