Morocco booked their place in the quarter-finals of the CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2025 with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Tanzania in Rabat on Sunday, as Brahim Diaz’s second-half strike proved decisive.

It was a patient but testing night for the Atlas Lions, who dominated possession yet struggled to break down a disciplined Tanzanian side determined to prolong their historic run at the tournament.

Captained by Achraf Hakimi for the first time at this edition, Morocco controlled the early exchanges but found clear openings difficult to come by. Tanzania sat deep, closed spaces efficiently, and limited the hosts’ influence in the final third.

Morocco thought they had taken the lead midway through the first half when Ismail Saibari turned in from close range, but celebrations were cut short after VAR ruled the goal out for offside. The moment summed up the frustration of a goalless opening period.

Walid Regragui’s side returned with greater urgency after the break. Diaz forced a corner with a glancing header before Bilal El Khannouss fired narrowly over the crossbar as Morocco began to apply sustained pressure.

Tanzania nearly stunned the hosts against the run of play in the 56th minute when Feisal Toto found space inside the box, only to send his effort over the bar.

Spurred on by a packed Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex, Morocco finally found the breakthrough in the 63rd minute. Diaz cut inside and finished confidently from a tight angle to spark celebrations in the stands.

The goal was Diaz’s fourth of the tournament, moving him clear at the top of the scoring charts and further underlining his importance to Morocco’s title ambitions.

Despite continued pressure, the hosts were unable to extend their lead, but Tanzania could not find a response as Morocco held firm to secure progression.

Morocco will now face the winner of the Round of 16 clash between South Africa and Cameroon in the quarter-finals at the Stade Al Madina in Rabat.