Stars coach admits his tactical plan against Morocco failed

The Belgo-Algerian coach also admitted during the post-match interview that the quality of their opponents played a big part in the last results.

Amrouche's approach quickly unraveled as goals from Selim Amallah, Azzedine Ounahi, and Badr Benoun sealed a comfortable Group F victory for the Atlas Lions.

According to CAF Media, the gaffer said: "Our gameplan failed. We did not expect this scenario but I congratulate Morocco for their performance and result."

The Algerian conceded the gulf in class was evident in Cote d'Ivoire on Wednesday.

"The quality of Morocco's players made the difference and they deserved to win," Amrouche admitted.

Amrouche said injuries before the game also hampered Tanzania's hopes according to their coach.

"We wanted a good result but I also had a lot of injuries which did not help us. We then made individual mistakes," explained Amrouche.

But the former Kenya manager says Taifa Stars can still advance from Group F.

"I'm trying to stay optimistic. We will correct our errors from this game and focus on the upcoming matches,"  Amrouche said. "It won't be easy but we still have a chance," the coach revealed.

Tanzania next faces 2012 TotalEnergies CAF AFCON winners Zambia on January 21 in a pivotal group encounter.

After this sobering defeat, Amrouche must quickly lift his side to achieve the "miracle" of progression he targeted pre-tournament.

Meanwhile, Zambia coach Avram Grant insisted his focus has swiftly turned to responding against Tanzania after Wednesday's 1-1 TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations draw with DR Congo.

The Chipolopolo surrendered the lead in Douala as DR Congo's Yoane Wissa canceled out Kings Kangwa's opener.

But Grant is wasting no time dwelling on the result and is already plotting victory in Zambia's next Group F outing.

"Every game is different and the next one will be different from this one," Grant told reporters post-match.

"We will surely put in place another tactic to seek victory against Tanzania."

The Israeli manager conceded DR Congo deserved a share of the spoils after fighting back before half-time.

"It was a difficult match for both teams but DR Congo were much better than us," admitted Grant.

"We moved the ball well but it was difficult for our attackers against big, strong defenders."

After a credible draw with one of the tournament favourites, Grant's pragmatic Zambia now targets three points against Tanzania on Sunday.

On the evidence of this resilient display, the 2012 AFCON winners have the tools to progress from the group stage.