AFCON 2025: Tanzanians furious over refereeing after elimination by Morocco

Africa 05 January 2026 at 04:40

Joshua SOSSOU

News Editor

In Tanzania, there was widespread outrage on Monday morning over the officiating in their round of 16 clash against Morocco.

On Sunday afternoon at the Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, the Atlas Lions clinched a 1-0 win over Tanzania. With this result, they secured their place in the quarterfinals of AFCON 2025. The match was notable for the return of Achraf Hakimi to the starting lineup, while it was Brahim Diaz who proved to be the match-winner for his side.

However, this victory hasn't come without controversy. According to several observers, Tanzania should have been awarded a penalty late in the match following a challenge by Adam Masina on Iddy Nado. Referee Boubou Traoré chose not to consult VAR to review his decision not to point to the spot. For several hours now, this decision has been the subject of heated debate.

“It wasn’t anger, I was just overwhelmed with emotion. I asked the referee why he didn’t go to VAR. I think everyone saw it. I’m not judging the referee—I wasn’t satisfied, nor did I agree, with many of his decisions, but he’s the one who administers justice on the pitch,” declared Miguel Angel Gamondi, head coach of Tanzania.

Fans and local media are equally furious. “Throughout the match, several marginal decisions seemed to favor Morocco. Tanzanian players and supporters deserved a fair and balanced contest,” noted Tanzanian outlet The Citizen, for example.