TANZANIA and Zambia step onto the pitch tonight knowing their World Cup dreams have ended. After a challenging qualification run dominated by Morocco who secured the group’s top spot and advanced to the next stage this encounter serves as a chance for redemption, pride, and experimentation for both sides.
For Tanzania, led by coach Hemed “Morocco” Suleiman, the focus is on breaking a troubling winless streak. The Taifa Stars have gone four competitive matches without victory, suffering losses to the Central African Republic, Morocco, Congo Republic, and Niger. Their most recent setback a narrow 1–0 defeat to Niger at home deepened frustrations, yet Suleiman insists his squad remains upbeat and united.
“We arrived safely in Zanzibar and trained well. All players are fit, physically and mentally,” he said on Monday. “Everyone is pushing hard for a starting place. The match against Zambia will be tough, but with this squad, I believe we can perform well.” The coach is expected to retain most of his recent lineup while giving younger talents a chance to shine, viewing the fixture as a key step in rebuilding ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Zambia’s story mirrors Tanzania’s. The Chipolopolo, under coach Avram Grant, also find themselves out of contention after a campaign that started brightly but faded fast. For Grant, tonight’s game provides one last opportunity to assess his squad and end the qualifiers with dignity. Despite the lack of qualification stakes, Zambia remains eager to avenge their earlier 1–0 defeat to Tanzania in the reverse fixture.
While the pressure is off, pride is very much on the line. Fans at Zanzibar’s Amaan Stadium can expect a spirited contest marked by attacking ambition and disciplined defending. It may not change the standings, but for supporters, it’s still a night to celebrate national football and to look ahead with hope to future campaigns.
FOR THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS AND STORIES FROM ACROSS THE GLOBE FROM THE ROBENGOPRO BLOG SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER BY CLICKING HERE .