Tanzania coach Adel Amrouche admitted his tactical plan failed as the Taifa Stars were handily beaten 3-0 by Morocco in their TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations, Cote d'Ivoire 2023 opener.

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

"Our gameplan failed. We did not expect this scenario but I congratulate Morocco for their performance and result," said Amrouche post-match.

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," admitted Amrouche.

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 Tanzania 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," said Amrouche.

"It won't be easy but we still have a chance."

Tanzania next face 2012 TotalEnergies CAF AFCON winners Zambia on January 21st 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.