Tanzania and Tunisia played out a tense 1–1 draw at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat on Tuesday, a result that sent both sides into the round of 16 at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The Carthage Eagles struck first in a lively encounter, with Ismaël Gharbi converting from the penalty spot in the 43rd minute after VAR ruled in Tunisia’s favour.
The goal capped a strong first-half showing in which Gharbi was at the heart of Tunisia’s attacking play, twice coming close to scoring earlier in the game, including an effort that rattled the post.
Tanzania, however, emerged from the break with renewed belief — and were rewarded almost immediately.
Just three minutes into the second half, Feisal Salum produced a moment of brilliance, firing a low right-footed strike from outside the box into the bottom corner to restore parity and ignite the Taifa Stars’ supporters.
The equaliser shifted momentum, as Tanzania grew in confidence and pushed for a historic winner. Simon Msuva and Novatus Miroshi both threatened, while Tunisia were forced into changes as injuries disrupted their rhythm.
Feisal Salum with a stunning strike to get Tanzania back on level terms ⚽️🇹🇿
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Despite late pressure from both sides, neither team could find a decisive breakthrough in a second half marked by physical battles, stoppages, and nervous moments in both penalty areas.
Tanzania secured a landmark qualification to the knockout stages, while Tunisia avoided another early AFCON exit and progressed alongside them from Group C.
Both teams now turn their attention to the round of 16, with confidence boosted after surviving a fiercely contested group finale.
