The head coach of the Tanzanian national team, Adel Amrouchi, has been suspended over remarks about Morocco influencing CAF (Confederation of African Football). The suspension follows an official complaint filed by Morocco regarding Amrouchi’s comments, where he claimed that the Moroccan national team had significant influence both within and outside CAF. He suggested that Morocco could manipulate matches, reschedule them, and even influence match officiating.
After a CAF disciplinary hearing, Amrouchi received an eight-match ban. Subsequently, the Tanzanian Football Federation (TFF) released a statement announcing the suspension of the head coach. Suleiman Ali has been named interim coach, with Juma Mgumba assisting for the remainder of Tanzania’s participation in the 2023 AFCON tournament.
Amrouchi’s absence is expected to impact the team’s strategy as they prepare for their next game against Zambia on Sunday. The team is hoping for a comeback after losing their opening game 3-0 to Morocco. Amrouchi played a crucial role in Tanzania’s qualification for the AFCON, having managed several African nations, including Equatorial Guinea, Burundi, Kenya, and Botswana, before his appointment in March 2023.
Despite his controversial remarks, where he claimed Morocco’s influence, Amrouchi attempted to backtrack before the opening match but faced challenges. Interestingly, he praised the North African side, calling them “one of the best teams in the world.” Despite the drama, the President of the Tanzanian Football Federation, Wallace Karia, clarified that the organization does not endorse Amrouchi’s comments. In a video posted by Azam TV, Karia emphasized that Amrouchi’s remarks are his personal opinions and do not reflect the organization’s stance. He also reiterated that the organization’s friendship with Morocco remains intact.
