Host nation Morocco secured a historic 2-0 victory over five-time champions Cameroon on Friday night, booking their place in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 semifinals for the first time in 22 years.
Goals from tournament standout Brahim Díaz and midfielder Ismael Saibari delighted a capacity crowd at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, ending the "Indomitable Lions'" continental campaign.
The quarterfinal victory marks a significant shift in the rivalry between the two African heavyweights. Historically, Cameroon had dominated this fixture, having never lost to Morocco in a tournament match prior to this encounter. However, the "Atlas Lions" capitalised on their home-turf advantage to dismantle a resilient but ultimately outmatched Cameroonian side.
Morocco established control early in the match, buoyed by the vocal support of nearly 68,000 fans. The breakthrough arrived in the 26th minute when Real Madrid forward Brahim Díaz showed clinical instincts, guiding the ball home from close range after a flick-on from a corner.
The strike was Díaz’s fifth of the competition, making him the tournament’s top scorer and the first player since 1965 to score in five consecutive AFCON appearances.
Despite several attempts by Cameroon to equalise, including a strong second-half performance driven by Bryan Mbeumo, the visitors failed to register a single shot on target. The Moroccan defence, led by captain Achraf Hakimi and goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, remained disciplined under pressure.
The hosts finally sealed the result in the 73rd minute when Ismael Saibari converted a powerful strike at the far post following another well-executed set piece.
Morocco will now remain in Rabat to prepare for their semifinal match scheduled for January 14, 2026. They are set to face the winner of the highly anticipated clash between Nigeria and Algeria.
