Morocco has officially withdrawn from the 2024 COSAFA Cup, less than two weeks before the tournament’s scheduled kickoff in South Africa.
The North African side, led by coach Tarik Sektioui, had been drawn into Group C and was due to make its debut appearance in the Southern African competition.
Tanzania has stepped in to replace Morocco and will now compete in Group C alongside Madagascar and Eswatini.
Morocco’s decision marks a surprising reversal.
The team, composed of local-based players and preparing for the African Nations Championship (CHAN) in August as well as the FIFA Arab Cup later this year, was set to use the COSAFA Cup as a key part of its buildup.
Their group-stage fixtures were slated to take place in Bloemfontein, beginning with a match against Madagascar on 6 June, followed by a clash with Eswatini five days later.
Confirmation of the withdrawal came from COSAFA president and head of the Comorian Football Federation, Saïd Ali Athouman.
Athouman said: “We were informed that the Moroccans would not be coming, without having any further information. We then contacted Tanzania, which had already participated in the competition, accepted our invitation and will replace Morocco in Group C.”
While no official statement has been released by the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), sources suggest the decision was taken by coach Sektioui, who opted to rest his squad following a demanding domestic season.
COSAFA, which frequently invites non-member nations to enhance the competitive level of the tournament, has in previous editions welcomed teams such as Ghana, Senegal, and Tanzania.
The invited teams typically feature squads comprised of domestic-based players, aligning with the tournament’s developmental objectives.
Tanzania’s involvement adds an interesting wrinkle to their June schedule.
The Taifa Stars are already slated to play a friendly against South Africa’s senior national team on 10 June.
Morocco have withdrawn from the #HOLLYWOODBETS COSAFA Cup 2025 and will be replaced in the 14-team field by East Africa guest nation Tanzania for the June 4-15 tournament to be staged in Mangaung | Bloemfontein. Read more: https://t.co/uoFoXkIIHR pic.twitter.com/F3tTWvHoIG
— COSAFA (@COSAFAMEDIA) May 29, 2025
It remains unclear whether they will field the same squad in both the friendly and the COSAFA Cup, or divide responsibilities between two teams.
The COSAFA Cup, set to run from 4 to 15 June, remains a vital platform for regional talent to gain international exposure.
While Morocco’s absence is notable, the inclusion of Tanzania ensures Group C remains competitive and continues to offer emerging players a valuable stage.
