Tanzania’s government has dismissed as false and misleading
reports suggesting that Kenyans are purchasing tickets en masse for the
upcoming CHAN quarterfinal match between Tanzania and Morocco.
Reports indicated that Kenyans are seeking to deny local Tanzanian
fans access to the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.
Speaking at a press briefing, government spokesperson Gerson
Musigwa firmly refuted the claims, assuring Tanzanian supporters that tickets
remain available.
He encouraged Tanzanians to turn out in large numbers to
support the national team.
“The game does not involve them, but they have started
issues. I want to dispel fears that Kenyans have bought all the tickets. It is
not true at all,” Musigwa said.
“Go to the stadium and you will watch the game. Seats are
available. They are making noise because they fear us.”
Social media reports had earlier alleged that Kenyan fans
were snapping up tickets for the highly anticipated showdown between Tanzania’s
Taifa Stars and two-time CHAN champions Morocco, raising concerns among
Tanzanian supporters that they might be locked out of the stadium.
The quarterfinal clash is scheduled for Friday at 8 p.m. at
the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium, just hours after Kenya faces Madagascar at
Nairobi’s Kasarani Stadium.
While football fans across East Africa often show
cross-border solidarity during international tournaments, the historical
football rivalry between Tanzania and Kenya has heightened suspicions
surrounding the ticket-buying frenzy.
Both nations’ fans have long engaged in spirited debates
over which country boasts the superior football pedigree.
Musigwa’s comments come amid growing anticipation for the
match, which many view as a defining moment for the Taifa Stars.
Morocco, who finished second behind Kenya in Group A, pose a
formidable challenge, and the support of the home crowd is expected to be
crucial for Tanzania’s performance.
Like the Kenya vs Madagascar clash, CHAN organisers have
made tickets for the Tanzania vs Morocco match available through an official
online platform.
Authorities are urging fans to use this avenue to secure
seats and avoid falling victim to misinformation or panic buying.
