Why Taifa Stars must defeat Morocco in World Cup qualifier
Deputy Minister for Culture, Arts, and Sports, Hamis Mwinjuma, alias Mwana FA (centre-standing), poses with the national flag that was presented to the national football team (Taifa Stars) players ahead of the World Cup qualifier match against Morocco. With him are Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) President Wallace Karia (far right), TFF Secretary General Kidao Wilfred (far left), players Simon Msuva (second left) and Shomari Kapombe (second right), along with other Taifa Stars players seated. PHOTO | COURTESY
What you need to know:
- Morocco needs a victory against Taifa Stars to secure their place in the World Cup finals, and they have already put one foot in the tournament following their 2-1 away win against Niger on Saturday.
Dar es Salaam. The Tanzania national football team (Taifa Stars) needs a positive result against Morocco on Wednesday to strengthen their chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Taifa Stars will face Morocco at the Honneur Stadium in Oujda, with kickoff set for 12am East Africa Time.
A decisive match for both teams
The match is crucial for both teams as it will provide a clearer picture of their qualification chances in Group E.
Mathematically, Morocco needs a victory against Taifa Stars to secure their place in the World Cup finals, and they have already put one foot in the tournament following their 2-1 away win against Niger on Saturday.
If Morocco wins, they will reach 15 points—an unassailable lead over the remaining teams in the group. However, if they draw against Taifa Stars, they will still have work to do, requiring a victory against Zambia or at least a draw in their final away match.
For Taifa Stars, the match is equally vital. They need at least a draw against one of Africa’s top teams to boost their chances of finishing among the top four and securing a spot in the play-offs.
As per the qualification format, the nine group winners will qualify directly for the World Cup, while the four best runners-up will enter the play-offs to determine which team advances to the inter-confederation play-offs.
A tough road ahead for Taifa Stars
Taifa Stars face a challenging task against Morocco, who finished fourth in the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
Their qualification journey remains difficult, despite having two home matches remaining at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium after the Morocco fixture.
Currently, Taifa Stars sit third in Group E with six points, following victories over Niger and Zambia. Niger holds second place, also with six points, but with a superior goal difference of +2 (6-4) compared to Taifa Stars' 0 (2-2).
Zambia is in fourth place with three points from four matches, while Congo Brazzaville, suspended by FIFA, remains in fifth place without any points.
Eritrea, initially part of Group E, withdrew from the competition. To stay in contention, Taifa Stars must secure victories against Niger in September and Zambia in October.
Head coach confident ahead of Morocco clash
“All the players are in high spirits, ready to battle Morocco, who lead the group with 12 points after winning all four of their opening matches. We need a positive result to catch up with them.
A win will not only increase our points but also help us avenge the 2-0 loss we suffered at home,” said Taifa Stars head coach Hemed “Morocco” Suleiman.
