When the Crowd Roars, Will Morocco Blink? Tanzania’s Coach Bets on Calm for AFCON Clash
2 January 2026
Ahead of the AFCON Last-16 Clash
Miguel Gamondi, Tanzania’s head coach, says they are preparing for a big, tough game against Morocco in the Africa Cup of Nations last-16.
The Tanzania squad will face Morocco on Sunday, in the last-16 at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
In comments carried on the Tanzania Football Federation’s YouTube channel, Gamondi said, "We must keep working and not relax, because we will face Morocco in front of 80,000 spectators."
He added, "I’ve lived in Morocco before, and I know the pressure the crowd will place on us during the match."
He noted that the pressure could backfire on the Moroccans by causing them to rush their play.
Gamondi emphasized the need to handle the home crowd well, especially after Tanzania’s strong showings against big teams like Nigeria and Tunisia.
We must stay composed and focused for this big test, he said, underscoring that Tanzania will fight for every ball against a top side.
Punchline 1: If the crowd gets loud, Morocco might discover that football isn’t a karaoke night—though a chorus of chants can still shake up the defense.
Punchline 2: Morocco, stay calm—this isn’t a kitchen show, it’s football; keep your cool or you’ll be serving offside soup.
