A DIVING header by Simon Msuva in the 62nd minute secured Tanzania’s qualification for the CAF African Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025, as they defeated Guinea 1-0 in a thrilling qualifier at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam yesterday.

Msuva, who missed two clear opportunities earlier in the game, redeemed himself with a clinical finish inside the six-yard box following a precise cross from Mudathir Yahya.

The victory cements Tanzania’s second-place finish in Group H with 10 points, securing their ticket to next year’s tournament in Morocco. Tanzania has now qualified for the AFCON finals four times: 1980 in Nigeria, 2019 in Egypt, 2023 in Ivory Coast and now 2025 in Morocco.

DR Congo, the group leaders, had already secured qualification prior to their match against Ethiopia later in the day. Guinea, with nine points, and Ethiopia, with only one point, have been eliminated.

The Taifa Stars began the game on an aggressive note, seeking an early lead.

In the 4th minute, Yahya’s shot was blocked inside the box by Guinea defenders.

Guinea responded in the 9th minute, forcing Tanzanian goalkeeper Aishi Manula into a spectacular save from Seydou Cisse’s effort.

Msuva squandered a chance in the 10th minute, failing to connect with Shomari Kapombe’s cross.

Guinea’s star striker, Serhou Guirassy - who scored 28 Bundesliga goals for VfB Stuttgart last season before transferring to Borussia Dortmund - was denied by the crossbar in the 41st minute.

Despite Guinea’s persistence, including a missed header by Guirassy, Tanzania's defense, led by Ibrahim Hamad, Dickson Job and goalkeeper Manula, stood firm.

In the second half, Tanzania intensified their attacks. After missing another chance in the 58th minute, Msuva made amends just four minutes later with the match-winning goal.

While the win delighted fans, it also highlighted Taifa Stars' recent struggles at home. Prior to this match, Tanzania had not won any of their last three home games, including two AFCON qualifiers against Ethiopia and DR Congo.

The Taifa Stars now look forward to continuing their preparations for the AFCON Morocco 2025 finals, where they hope to make a significant impact and build on their recent success.

Taifa Stars Starting XI

Aishi Manula (GK), Shomari Kapombe, Mohamed Hussein, Dickson Job, Ibrahim Hamad, Adolf Bitegeko, Mudathir Yahya, Simon Msuva, Feisal Salum, Mbwana Samatta (C), Clement Mzize.