Miguel Gamondi warns Morocco – Tanzania here to win

The Taifa Stars take on the tournament favourites in what is expected to be a sold-out encounter at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, with the vast majority of the crowd firmly behind the Atlas Lions.

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Despite the intimidating setting, Gamondi stressed that Tanzania will not be overawed, saying his team are at the tournament to win matches.

"That is obviously our motivation, looking forward to playing the host country at a sold-out stadium. African football is growing, and it is a privilege to play here. This is enough motivation for the players to get a result," said Gamondi.

Gamondi admitted that having previously worked in Morocco could give him a slight edge against a technically gifted team.

"I spent most of my career here. My life is here, I know the Moroccan style, I know a lot about this country. I have worked in Tunisia, Morocco and everywhere in Africa, but I can tell you that Moroccan players are very gifted, skillful," added Gamondi.

Meanwhile, the coach also paid tribute to veteran striker Ally Samatta who is likely to be playing his final AFCON at the age of 33.

Samatta, who played for English Premier League outfit Aston Villa at his peak, weighed in on the support from Tanzanian fans ahead of the Morocco clash.

"As everybody knows Tanzania is a country of football. We've seen how they support football. We want to be a great nation in football - not only in Africa but across the globe. It is something that we are proud of," he expressed.