The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has delivered a final ruling that solidifies Tanzania's participation in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, where they will compete against Nigeria's Super Eagles in Group C.
CAS Rejects Guinea's Shirt Number Protest
In a decisive verdict that ends months of uncertainty, CAS has completely dismissed an appeal filed by the Guinean Football Federation (GFF) regarding Tanzania's qualification. The GFF had protested that Tanzania fielded a player wearing an incorrect shirt number during their AFCON qualifier in November 2024.
The Guinean federation argued that this administrative error created what they called an 'unfair tactical advantage' and demanded that the match be forfeited 3-0 in their favor. However, both CAF and now CAS have determined that the jersey numbering issue had no sporting impact on the actual match outcome.
Tanzania's Historic Back-to-Back Qualifications
This ruling preserves what represents a significant football achievement for Tanzania. The Taifa Stars endured a 39-year absence from the AFCON tournament between 1980 and 2019, when they qualified under Nigerian coach Emmanuel Amuneke.
Their appearance in Morocco will mark the first time in history that Tanzania has qualified for consecutive Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, having also participated in the 2023 edition held in Côte d'Ivoire.
The CAS decision means Tanzania remains fully qualified for the continental showpiece, with no replay required, no sanctions imposed, and no threat of disqualification.
Group C Fixtures and Tournament Details
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations kicks off in Morocco on December 23, with Tanzania scheduled to face Nigeria in their opening Group C match on the same day. Their subsequent group stage matches include:
- Against Uganda on December 27
- Against Tunisia on December 30
Meanwhile, CAF has introduced several new regulations for the upcoming tournament following a virtual meeting with technical staff from all 24 qualified teams. Key changes include:
- Maximum of 28 players per squad registration
- Only 17 staff members allowed per team
- Teams can arrive in Morocco up to 5 days before opening ceremony
- Clubs must release players by December 8
In related news, the Super Eagles have suffered a setback with defender Benjamin Fredrick ruled out of the tournament due to a serious injury sustained during club training after returning from World Cup play-off duty.
