After making his international debut with the Taifa Stars in the build-up to the previous edition of the winter tournament in 2023, Allarakhia headed into the 2025 competition having recently scored his first goal for his country.
That high-scoring friendly defeat to Kuwait, in which he netted, was the final game in preparation for the group stages, with Nigeria, Uganda and Tunisia standing in their way in Group C.
Two days before Christmas, Tanzania faced one of the favourites to win it Nigeria, in the opening group encounter. Our number seven was named in the starting line-up and involved in the build-up to Charles M’Mombwa’s equalising goal, laying the ball off for a cross which was finished cleverly in the centre.
Unfortunately, Nigeria hit back minutes later to secure all three points but Taz’s side gave a good account of themselves in a challenging beginning to the group.
The side ranked 112th in the world then had the task of Uganda, with Tarryn earning a second straight start. Simon Msuva’s second-half penalty had the side in blue ahead before a late equaliser, after Allarakhia’s departure from the field, meant they had to settle for a point.
Tanzania knew victory over Tunisia in the final group match would be enough to secure passage through to the Round of 16. Feisal Salum levelled the tie up within three minutes of the second period with the Dale man introduced with five minutes remaining.
Both sides had the opportunity to progress through with a draw, as four best third-placed teams can qualify to the knockout stages. The game ended 1-1, with Tanzania making history by getting past the group phase for the first-ever time, in just their fourth appearance at AFCON.
This set up a glamorous tie with the host country Morocco on Sunday. Again, Taz had to be patient with a place on the bench and entered the field with Brahim Diaz’s goal separating the sides with 17 minutes left on the clock. However, their journey ended with another spirited performance against the big-hitters.
Our congratulations go to Taz for his efforts whilst on international duty and we look forward to welcoming him back!
