In a decisive ruling that solidifies the lineup for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has officially cleared the Taifa Stars of Tanzania to participate in the 2025 tournament, dismissing a last-ditch appeal from Guinea.
Guinea's Shirt Number Appeal Dismissed
The controversy stemmed from an AFCON qualifying match played on November 19, 2024, which Tanzania won 1-0. The Guinean Football Federation (FEGUIFOOT) filed an appeal with CAS, arguing that Tanzania should be disqualified because they fielded a player wearing an incorrect shirt number. Guinea contended that this administrative error provided an unfair tactical advantage and demanded the match result be forfeited 3-0 in their favor, which would have handed them the qualification spot.
However, in its announcement on Tuesday, CAS ruled that the incident was a minor administrative error with no bearing on the sporting outcome of the match. This verdict upholds the earlier decision made by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), bringing a definitive end to the dispute.
Tournament Preparations Can Proceed
With the legal challenge now closed, Tanzania's place at AFCON 2025 is irrevocably confirmed. This allows the Taifa Stars to focus entirely on their preparations for the prestigious tournament without the cloud of uncertainty.
The team has been drawn in a highly competitive Group C, where they will face formidable opponents. Their group stage matches are as follows:
- The Super Eagles of Nigeria
- The Carthage Eagles of Tunisia
- Regional rivals, the Cranes of Uganda
Tanzania is scheduled to face Nigeria in their opening fixture in the city of Fez on Tuesday, December 23. This ruling ensures that the group remains unchanged, setting the stage for an exciting start to the competition for the Super Eagles and their fans.
