Tanzania’s government spokesperson Gerson Musigwa dismissed claims that Kenyan fans purchased all tickets for the CHAN quarter-final clash between Tanzania’s Taifa Stars and Morocco, set for August 22 at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.
The allegations, fueled by social media banter, suggested Kenyans aimed to limit Tanzanian supporters’ access to the highly anticipated match.
Musigwa called the claims baseless, assuring fans that ample tickets remain for the CHAN 2024 quarter-final showdown, urging Tanzanians to rally behind their team.
The CHAN 2024 tournament, co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, has ignited regional rivalries, with the Tanzania vs Morocco match drawing significant attention.
Reports surfaced online that Kenyan fans, frustrated by a crashed ticketing site for their own quarter-final against Madagascar, allegedly bought tickets for Tanzania’s game to support Morocco or disrupt local attendance.
Musigwa addressed these rumors during a press briefing, stating, “Our neighbors are yapping because they fear us.” He emphasized that the 60,000-capacity Benjamin Mkapa Stadium has sufficient seats, encouraging fans to secure tickets through official channels like Mookh to avoid misinformation.
The Kenya-Tanzania football rivalry has intensified during CHAN 2024, with both nations advancing to the quarter-finals. Kenya’s Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen fueled the banter, jokingly congratulating Kenyans for buying Tanzanian tickets and urging them to cheer for Morocco.
The Star reported that such actions reflect the playful yet fierce competition between the East African neighbors.
Meanwhile, Tanzania’s Taifa Stars, buoyed by a KSh 10 million pledge from President Samia Suluhu, aim to leverage home support against the formidable Atlas Lions, who finished second behind Kenya in Group A.
Musigwa’s dismissal of the ticket-buying claims has calmed fears among Tanzanian supporters. He urged fans to ignore social media speculation and attend the CHAN quarter-final clash in large numbers.
“Come to the stadium gates, and you will enter. The government has ensured enough space,” he said. The match, kicking off at 8:00 pm EAT, is a critical test for Taifa Stars, with Morocco posing a significant challenge.
Authorities have implemented measures to manage crowds and ensure safety, addressing concerns about ticket fraud reported in Kenya.
Tanzania’s government spokesperson, Gerson Musigwa, has responded to Kenyans' claims that they have purchased tickets for the CHAN quarter-final clash between Tanzania and Morocco.
— The Standard Digital (@StandardKenya) August 21, 2025
Video By Davis Mberia pic.twitter.com/j1M2deNz7z
The controversy over the CHAN quarter-final clash tickets highlights the spirited rivalry between Kenya and Tanzania.
Social media posts amplified the narrative, with some Kenyans claiming their actions were retaliation for earlier Tanzanian taunts. Musigwa’s response shows Tanzania’s confidence in hosting a successful event, urging fans to focus on supporting Taifa Stars.
A potential Kenya-Tanzania final looms, adding intrigue to the tournament’s outcome.
As the CHAN quarter-final clash approaches, Tanzania remains focused on rallying its fans. Musigwa’s assurances aim to counter the ticket-buying claims and maintain enthusiasm for the Morocco match.
With both teams vying for a semi-final spot, the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium is set to be electric, showcasing Tanzania’s passion for football and its resolve to overcome regional banter.
