CASABLANCA-(MaraviPost)-Tanzania have written a new chapter in their football history after qualifying for the Round of 16 at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025, becoming the first nation to reach the knockout stage with just two points.
The Taifa Stars secured their place following a hard fought 1–1 draw against Tunisia in their final Group C encounter, a result that proved decisive in a tightly contested group.
Tunisia took the lead late in the first half after being awarded a penalty, which was calmly converted to give the North Africans the advantage heading into the break.
Tanzania responded with determination early in the second half when midfielder Feisal Salum scored a crucial equaliser, restoring hope and shifting the momentum of the match.
The draw meant Tanzania completed the group stage with two points, having registered two draws and one defeat, without recording a single victory in the group.
Despite the low points tally, the Taifa Stars progressed as one of the four best third placed teams, benefiting from the AFCON format introduced after the tournament’s expansion to 24 teams.
Tanzania edged out Angola, who also finished with two points, on the basis of goals scored, a margin that ultimately separated qualification from elimination.
This achievement marks Tanzania’s first ever progression beyond the group stage at the Africa Cup of Nations, ending decades of early exits at the continental showpiece.
Group C was topped by Nigeria, who finished with a perfect record after winning all three matches, while Tunisia advanced as runners up with four points.
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