Tanzania and Tunisia will face off on Tuesday at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat in a decisive Group C clash at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, with a place in the round of 16 at stake.
The Taifa Stars come into the match after a 1-1 draw against neighbours Uganda, a result that has kept their qualification hopes alive. Tunisia, meanwhile, will be aiming to bounce back from a 3-2 defeat to Nigeria in their previous game.
Tanzania currently sit third in the group with one point from two matches. That draw against Uganda means they still control their own fate, as a win over Tunisia would see them qualify for the knockout stage for the first time in their AFCON history.
Head coach Hemed Suleiman knows the task will not be easy. Tanzania have gone nine matches without a win, and they will need a strong all-round performance to overcome more experienced opposition.
Tunisia arrive with a stronger recent record, as their loss to Nigeria was only their second defeat in 11 matches across all competitions. However, the scoreline flattered the Carthage Eagles, who trailed 3-0 before mounting a late comeback that made the result more respectable.
For Tunisia, qualification is straightforward — victory will guarantee their place in the round of 16. The disappointment of failing to advance beyond the group stage at the previous AFCON in 2023 remains fresh, and they will be keen to make amends.
Although Tunisia are favourites on paper, defensive weaknesses remain a concern. They have managed just one clean sheet in their last nine matches, giving Tanzania hope of causing an upset.
Possible Line-ups
Tanzania:
Foba; Hussein, Hamad, Nwamnyeto, Mnoga; Msuva, Msanga, Salum, Miroshi, Allarakhia; John
Tunisia:
Dahmen; Valery, Bronn, Talbi, Abdi; Sassi, Mejbri, Skhiri; Achouri, Mastouri, Tounekti
With qualification on the line, Tuesday’s encounter promises to be a tense and highly competitive contest.
