It's toughest test for Taifa Stars tonight

 Photos from the Tanzania vs Central African Republic match which ended 0-0. [Kipsang Joseph, Standard]

Tanzania’s Taifa stars face their toughest test in the African Nations Championship (Chan) when they host defending champions Morocco in the quarter-finals on Friday.

The Atlas Lions march into Dar es Salaam with the swagger of serial winners. The North Africans finished second in group A sweeping aside Angola, Zambia and DR Congo. 

Speaking to the media Morocco coach Tarek Sektioui struck a calm but focused tone.

"We know it is a very important match, it will not be easy, we just concentrate and be motivated and God willing we will advance," he said.

He admitted to defensive headaches but kept faith in his squad.

"We have challenges in the backline, but we have players who can fill the gap. This stage has its own challenges and will tackle them" he said. 

For Tanzania this is a moment of truth,  the hosts reached this level after beating Burkina Faso, Madagascar and Mauritania riding a wave of noisy home support.

Coach Hemed Suleiman alias Morocco played down the fear factor.

"We respect Morocco but we do not fear them we have mature players, we have corrected our mistakes and we are ready mentally and physically, we promise Tanzanians we will give you a gift tomorrow," he said. 

The Taifa stars boss did not hide his intent of ensuring they are advancing to the semi-finals.

"If we want to be champions we must beat good teams and tomorrow's (today) match is a must win for us," he said.

The players also added their voice with veteran defender Shomari Kapombe echoing his coach's sentiments.

"On behalf of the players we are ready, Morocco is strong team but this is a big chance for us to announce ourselves in football," he said. 

Moroccan forward Bouhra Saifeddine acknowledged the threat.

"We knew Tanzania is not easy, they play very aggressive football so we must be prepared," Saifeddine said.