Atlas Lions Begin AFCON Campaign as Favorites After Impressive World Cup Performance

The Atlas Lions, fresh off their historic run in the 2022 World Cup, have emerged as one of the favorites going into this year’s African Cup of Nations (AFCON). Being the first African team to reach the tournament’s semi-final stage, expectations are high for Morocco. While they have only won the AFCON title once, back in 1976, the time feels right for another triumph.

With an impressive lineup of players from some of Europe’s biggest clubs, the Atlas Lions are under pressure to make a statement in their opening fixture. Their first opponent, Tanzania, lacks firepower and offers a favorable opportunity for Morocco to make a strong start.

The game between Morocco and Tanzania is scheduled for a 5pm BST kick-off time on Wednesday 17 January 2024. The match will take place at the Laurent Pokou Stadium in San Pedro.

Fans can catch the action live on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Football, with coverage starting at 4.55pm ahead of the 5pm kick-off. Subscribers can also stream the game on the Sky Go website and app. For comprehensive updates, Standard Sport will provide a dedicated match blog.

In terms of team news, there is a doubt over Bayern Munich defender Noussair Mazraoui’s availability, as he has been carrying an injury into the tournament. If he doesn’t feature, Attiat Allah is expected to deputize at left-back. There are also options in Ayoub El Kaabi and Tarik Tissoudali to cover and compete with Youssef En-Nesyri, who shone at the World Cup. On the other side, English-based players Haji Mnoga, Tarryn Allarakhia, and Anthony Ben Starkie will be hoping to make an impact for Tanzania.

Considering their outstanding performance in the World Cup, it would be a major upset if the Atlas Lions fail to start their AFCON campaign with a win. The prediction is a 2-1 victory for Morocco.

Head-to-head statistics: Morocco has won 3 matches against Tanzania, with no draws and one victory for Tanzania.

Betting odds: Morocco to win at 2/7, draw at 4/1, and Tanzania to win at 10/1 (odds via Betfair, subject to change).