Tanzania coach Adel Amrouche suspended by CAF for insulting Morocco

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) Disciplinary Committee has suspended Algerian coach Adel Amrouche of the Tanzanian national team for eight matches, as revealed in a press release on Friday. The suspension stems from accusations Amrouche made against the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF).

Following CAF's decision, the Tanzania Football Federation released a statement acknowledging Amrouche's suspension, received on January 18th, and announcing his immediate suspension. Interim manager Hemed Suleiman Ali, also known as Hemed Morocco, assisted by Juma Mgunda, will take charge of the Tanzania's national football team, the Taifa Stars, moving forward.

These measures come after the FRMF filed a formal complaint against Amrouche for public accusations alleging the Moroccan football association unduly influenced CAF in favor of the Atlas Lions.

For the record, the Tanzanian national team coach, Algerian national Adel Amrouche, stirred the pot with explosive accusations. He acknowledged Morocco's prowess but blasted the decision to schedule the match for evening, hinting at «hidden influencers» within African football and questioning the impartiality of referees under a supposed Moroccan influence.

These allegations ignited a firestorm. The Tanzanian Football Federation distanced itself from Amrouche's fiery remarks, emphasizing respect for Morocco and vowing to address his provocative statements. Meanwhile, Moroccan coach Walid Regragui remained unfazed, refusing to engage in the controversy and stating their focus lay solely on the pitch.

It is important to note that Morocco secured a decisive 3-0 victory over Tanzania, topping Group F. The other group match ended in a 1-1 draw between DR Congo and Zambia.