Tanzania qualified for the Africa Cup of Nations knockout stage for the first time in their history after coming from behind to draw 1–1 with Tunisia in a thrilling Group C encounter at the 2025 AFCON in Rabat on Tuesday.
Ismael Gharbi put Tunisia ahead from the penalty spot just before half-time, but Feisal Salum equalised early in the second half to earn Tanzania a landmark result in the Moroccan capital.
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The Taifa Stars had been trying to progress beyond the group stage since their AFCON debut in 1980 and had failed to win any of their previous 12 matches across four tournament appearances. Despite still searching for their first AFCON victory, Tanzania advanced to the Round of 16 with two draws and one defeat.
Tunisia finished second in Group C with four points, five fewer than group winners Nigeria. Tanzania secured one of the four places reserved for the best third-placed teams, edging out Angola on goals scored.
In the group’s other fixture, already-qualified Nigeria maintained a perfect record with a 3–1 victory over 10-man Uganda, with Raphael Onyedika scoring twice.
Tanzania will now face tournament hosts and title favourites Morocco in Rabat on Sunday, while Tunisia are set to meet Mali a day earlier. Nigeria will take on the third-placed team from Group F on Monday in Fes.
Tanzania head coach Miguel Gamondi, who was appointed only last month after replacing Hemed Suleiman, expressed pride in the team’s achievement.
“I feel very proud, not just for myself but for the country. I wanted to change the mentality of Tanzania always being underdogs.
“To qualify is great for Tanzania. I hope this success will remind these players and the next generation of the potential of Tanzanian football.”
