Morocco booked their place in the CHAN 2024 semi-finals with a narrow 1-0 victory over Tanzania in Dar es Salaam, relying on discipline, patience and a moment of quality from Oussama Lamlaoui.
At the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, the Atlas Lions leaned on their tournament experience to outmanoeuvre a spirited Tanzanian side making their debut at this stage of the competition.
Lamlaoui’s decisive volley in the 65th minute proved the difference, securing Morocco’s passage and highlighting the fine margins of knockout football.
Experience over enthusiasm
For CAF Technical Study Group member Oscar Rabson Mirambo, the defining factor was Morocco’s composure under pressure.
While the Taifa Stars came out with energy and intensity, the two-time champions absorbed the challenge and waited for the right moment to strike.
Tanzania showed great determination, but Morocco managed the key phases of the game better, Mirambo noted, underlining the gulf in experience between the sides.
Hemed Suleiman’s men, though buoyed by a historic quarter-final appearance, were undone at crucial moments.
Their defensive concentration wavered just long enough for Lamlaoui to pounce, steering home the only goal of the contest.
Defensive order and midfield control
Even without several first-choice defenders, Morocco remained compact and difficult to break down.
Their backline denied Tanzania opportunities to penetrate with vertical passes, cutting off the supply to the forwards and forcing play into less dangerous areas.
The midfield battle was equally influential. Morocco’s organisation gave Tanzania the illusion of control, yet in reality limited their ability to progress into threatening positions.
It was from one such moment of regained possession and swift transition that Morocco capitalised, punishing the hosts with clinical efficiency.
Tanzania’s progress, Morocco’s confirmation
Despite elimination, Tanzania’s run has been historic.
For the first time, the Taifa Stars reached the quarter-finals of a CAF men’s competition, a milestone that lays groundwork for future growth.
Their spirited campaign will serve as a platform to build upon in years to come.
For Morocco, head coach Tarik Sektioui emphasised the collective focus that carried his side through.
Unity and tactical preparation made the difference, he said, reflecting on a performance built on experience and clarity of approach.
The result sets up a semi-final clash with defending champions Senegal, where Morocco will once again look to blend resilience with precision as they pursue a third CHAN crown.
