Tanzania reached the knockout stages of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) for the first time, 45 years after its first appearance, as they drew 1-1 against Tunisia in Rabat on Tuesday.
Ismael Gharbi converted a penalty for Tunisia just before half-time, and Feisal Salum leveled early in the second half in the Moroccan capital.
Tanzania have been trying to progress beyond the group stage since 1980, but are yet to win in 12 matches across four outings. They reached the eighth finals after two draws and one defeat.
Tunisia finished second in Group C with four points, five fewer than table toppers Nigeria. Tanzania defeated Angola on goals scored for one of the four places reserved for third-placed teams.
Tanzania will face host and title favorite Morocco in Rabat on Sunday.
“We didn’t have enough time to prepare the team, but we worked with the federation,” said Argentina-born Tanzania coach Miguel Gamondi, who replaced local Hemed Suleiman last month.
“I am very proud, not only for myself, but for the country. I wanted to change the mentality where Tanzania is always an underdog.
“Qualifying is great for Tanzania. I hope this success will remind these players and the next generation of players of the potential of Tanzanian football.”
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Gamondi made an AFCON debut ahead of 33-year-old goalkeeper Hussein Masaranga, one of three changes to the team that drew against Uganda in the previous match.
At the other end, Tunisian coach Sami Trabelsi benched 33-year-old captain Ferjani Sassi, but the midfielder came into action early in the second half to win his 100th cap.
Ismael Gharbi hit the post early for Tunisia. He then saw a daring long-range effort land on the roof of the net, to the relief of the poorly positioned Masaranga.
Tunisia had a slim lead in possession and took the lead after 43 minutes when the Congolese referee awarded a penalty after reviewing a goal incident on the on-field VAR monitor.
Big screen replays showed Ibrahim Hamad fouling Hazem Mastouri. The penalty was converted by Gharbi.
The lead did not last long, as Feisal Salum leveled the score just two minutes into the second half. He shot towards goal from behind the D and the ball disappeared past Aymen Dahmen in the corner.
Published on December 31, 2025
