Tanzania’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign came to a controversial end after they were denied a late penalty in a narrow 1-0 defeat to hosts Morocco at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
The Taifa Stars were knocked out at the Round of 16 stage, with Ibrahim Diaz’s second-half strike proving decisive as Morocco advanced to the quarterfinals.
Drama unfolded deep into added time when Moroccan defender Adam Masina appeared to use excessive force, extending his hand in a push on Tanzania’s Iddy Nado inside the penalty area.
Despite strong appeals from Tanzanian players and the technical bench, Malian referee Boubou Traore waved play on, a decision that was not interrupted by VAR.
The protests briefly halted the match, but once play resumed, Tanzania were unable to find a late equaliser.
Diaz had earlier broken the deadlock in the 63rd minute, scoring from a tight angle with a powerful effort that beat the goalkeeper at his near post, sending the home fans into celebration.
The goal was Diaz’s fourth of the tournament, as the Real Madrid star continues to show his quality.
Tanzania had put in a disciplined and resilient defensive display and came close to taking a shock lead earlier in the match. Fei Toto, left unmarked inside the area, failed to convert from close range after Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bonou spilled an initial effort, sending the rebound over the bar.
Despite the heartbreak, the Taifa Stars exit the tournament with pride, having made history by qualifying from the group stage for the first time.
