AFCON: Tunisia in knockout stage, Tanzania await other results

Tunisia has qualified for the knockout stage of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), while fellow group member, Tanzania, who held them to a draw, await results from other groups to know if they can make it as one of the best third placed teams.

Tunisia and Tanzania fought to a 1-1 standstill in the Group C final group stage match on Tuesday, with Nigeria topping.

The Super Eagles of Nigeria whipped the Cranes of Uganda 3-1 for an unblemished group stage result, coming out tops with nine points.

At the Olympic Stadium in Rabat, Tanzania and Tunisia played to a 1-1 draw at the end of a largely subdued contest.

This was with Tanzania coming from a goal down to equalise in a result that carried significant implications for the group standings.

Tunisia enjoyed early control of possession but struggled to raise the tempo.

After a series of attacks and threat at goal from Ismael Gharbi, including a cracking left foot curler that struck the post, the Carthage Eagles were eventually rewarded in the 42nd minute.

Hazem Mastouri was fouled in the box by Bakari Mwamnyeto and following a lengthy VAR review, Tunisia was awarded a penalty.

Gharbi stepped up to convert, giving Tunisia a deserved lead.

The North Africans went into the break 1-0 ahead after a first half that was low on rhythm but comfortably managed.

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After the restart, Tunisia opted to protect their advantage rather than push on.

That cautious approach gradually invited Tanzania back into the game, with the Taifa Stars growing in confidence and intent.

The ambitious Tanzanians finally found their moment in the 54th minute.

Feisal Salum curled a fine effort from the edge of the area, the bounce catching goalkeeper Aymen Dahmen off guard as the ball nestled into the net.

The closing stages lacked intensity, as both sides made multiple substitutions and appeared content with the outcome.

Tanzania, aware that the point could place them among the best third-placed teams, managed the clock intelligently.

The 1-1 draw officially secured Tunisia’s qualification to the Round of 16 on second place in the group, while Tanzania preserved a strong chance of progression as one of the best four third placed ranked teams.

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