Taifa Stars bow out of CHAN

DAR ES SALAAM: TAIFA STARS’ dream of reaching the semi-finals of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) came to a heartbreaking end tonight, following a narrow 1-0 defeat to Morocco at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam.

In front of a passionate home crowd, Tanzania put on a spirited display, showcasing grit and determination throughout the quarter-final clash.

Despite the defeat, the atmosphere was one of pride and celebration, as fans cheered on the national side for their valiant effort in this year’s campaign.

The match began at a furious tempo, with Tanzania pressing high from the opening whistle.

Their early aggression nearly paid off, but it was Morocco who carved out the first real chance in the 9th minute. Oussama Lamlioui unleashed a powerful strike that was superbly parried by Taifa Stars goalkeeper Yakoub Ali.

Ten minutes later, Tanzania responded with a well-worked move. Iddi Selemani slipped a clever pass into the box for Feisal Salum, who found space and fired towards goal, only to be denied by Morocco’s shot-stopper, Elmehdi Al Harrar.

The first half saw end-to-end action. Stephano Mzize came close twice for Tanzania. His 30th-minute acrobatic attempt flew over the bar and a close-range strike on the stroke of half-time was once again thwarted by Al Harrar. The teams went into the break level at 0-0.

Morocco emerged stronger in the second half, pushing forward with renewed intensity. Yakoub Ali made a brilliant double save early in the half, first denying Lamlioui and then Mohamed Hrimat from close range.

However, the breakthrough came in the 67th minute, when Lamlioui finally found the back of the net with a composed finish, silencing the home crowd briefly.

Even after going behind, the stadium reverberated with drums and chants, lifting the Taifa Stars as they continued to search for an equaliser.

Abdul Suleiman fired narrowly wide in the 70th minute, while Nassoro Saadun’s 81st-minute effort soared over the bar.

Tanzania’s exit follows neighbours Kenya, who bowed out earlier after a penalty shootout. Though the journey ends here, Taifa Stars leave the tournament with heads held high, having given their all on home soil.