Tanzania Roast to Kenya Sees Them Lose 1-0 to Morocco

File image of Taifa Stars at CHAN

Tanzania's enthusiastic journey in the African Nations Championship (CHAN) ended on a disappointing note Friday night, as they were defeated 1-0 by Morocco in the quarter-finals at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam.

The Atlas Lions, who have won the CHAN twice, netted the only goal in the 65th minute courtesy of Oussama Lamlaoui, quieting a full home audience that had gathered to support the Taifa Stars.

Morocco withstood the late pressure from the hosts to secure their spot in the semi-finals.

The defeat occurred amid a tense online exchange between Tanzanian and Kenyan fans.

Leading up to the match, Tanzanian officials denied rumors circulating online that Kenyan supporters had purchased tickets for the quarter-final in an attempt to outnumber the local fans.

Harambee Stars's striker playing against Zambia on August 17th at Moi international stadium. Photo: President Ruto

Government spokesperson Gerson Musigwa assured fans that tickets were still available and ridiculed Kenyans for what he called fear-motivated comments.

“I want to reassure Tanzanians that the story claiming all tickets have been sold is not true. When you come to the stadium, you will get in. They talk a lot because they fear us. But we say—let it rain if it rains.”

Kenyan leaders also joined in the banter, with Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen joking that Kenyans would gladly travel to Dar to support Morocco if necessary.

“I congratulate all Kenyans who’ve bought Tanzanian tickets. Please make sure you go and support Morocco at Benjamin Mkapa. If they are going to make fun of us the way they have done, I’ll be very happy if it is Kenya versus Tanzania in the finals in Nairobi.”

Ironically, the Taifa Stars' elimination has sparked increased mockery from Kenyans online. Users have resurrected the pre-match banter, celebrating Morocco's victory as a "response on Kenya's behalf."

Even after their exit, Tanzania's journey in CHAN 2024 remains a historic achievement. The Taifa Stars advanced to the knockout stages for the first time, finishing at the top of Group B with impressive performances and conceding just once before facing Morocco.

This exit signifies progress for Tanzanian football and highlights the increasing presence of East African teams in continental competitions.

For Kenyans, the loss offered an unanticipated opportunity for regional banter, strengthening the lively rivalry between the two neighbors both on and off the field.