2023 AFCON Day 5 Preview: Morocco debut with high expectations, neighbors Zambia and DR Congo clash

The first match of the day features a duel that most resembles a “David vs Goliath” clash when the Taifa Stars of Tanzania face off with one of the favorites to win the competition, Morocco. Before the competition this match appeared to be a straightforward victory for the Atlas Lions but the Tanzanian team and its supporters are dreaming big after seeing some major upsets so far in Ivory Coast. Traditional North African giants Egypt and Algeria could only manage draws against Mozambique and Angola while Tunisia fell to an inspired Namibia team which adds a bit of uncertainty before Wednesday’s opening clash.

However the reality is that Morocco remains heavy favorites. Head coach Walid Regragui acknowledged the surprise results but stated his team is focused on claiming three points. Bayern Munich full back Noussair Mazraoui is the only injury related absence for the Atlas Lions and it appears that center back captain Romain Saïss will be available as well as Hakim Ziyech after returning to training from minor injuries. Regragui mentioned that two or three players are uncertain to play but did not specify which players.

The Moroccan defense is formidable regardless even if Saïss and Mazraoui miss out with top goalkeeper Yassine Bounou forming the backbone of a defensive line that also includes Achraf Hakimi, West Ham United central defender Nayef Aguerd and defensive midfielder Sofyan Amrabat. Yahia Attiyat-Allah, a favorite of Regragui from his time with Wydad AC, should be selected at the left back position.

Striker Youssef En-Nesyri scored twice in a preparation friendly against Sierra Leone and should lead the attacking line. Sofiane Boufal scored as well and could line up on the opposite flank from Ziyech but Abde Ezzalzouli and Tarik Tissoudali are other reliable options who can operate on the wing. Azzedine Ounahi is a creative option in the center of the midfield who will be joined by one of Selim Amallah, Amine Harit or Bilal El Khannous.

Oddly, the rivalry between Morocco and Algeria became a point of discussion before this match through Tanzania’s Algerian head coach Adel Amrouche. Amrouche paid his respects to the accomplishments of the Atlas Lions but caused controversy by accusing the Royal Moroccan Football Federation of influencing many decisions within the Confederation of African Football including even the decision as to who referees matches. The coach also limited expectations for his young team stating their goal is to “grow and develop” at the competition.

Young Africans center back Bakari Nwamnyeto will anchor the defense with a capable goalkeeper behind him in Aishi Manula of Simba SC. Simba captain Mohamed Hussein could get the nod at left back where his stamina could be useful if utility player Novatus Dismas is used elsewhere, perhaps in the midfield.

The issue for Tanzania is the attack which continues to be toothless. Talisman striker and captain Mbwana Samatta is a strong force at the top of the formation with another capable veteran in Simon Msuva but the service is lacking. Kibu Dennis is a potential option with his speed on the wing and either Feisal Salum or Australia-based midfielder Charles M’Mombwa will be the primary central playmaker. Two defensive midfielders are likely to be used with Egyptian-based Himid Mao Mkami and Dismas or Young Africans players Mudathir Yahya and Yassin Mzamiru the candidates to partner Mkami.