Hosts Morocco booked their place in the semi-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with a commanding 2-0 victory over Cameroon on Friday night at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
Coming into the quarter-final under pressure after a lacklustre Round of 16 win against Tanzania, Morocco responded emphatically. Their early dominance paid off in the 26th minute when Brahim Díaz netted his fifth goal of the tournament in Rabat.
The Real Madrid forward demonstrated sharp instincts, guiding Ayoub El Kaabi’s flicked corner from skipper Achraf Hakimi into the net with his thigh.
Cameroon returned from the break with renewed energy and attacking intent, but they struggled to break down a disciplined and well-organised Moroccan defence.
With just 15 minutes remaining, Morocco delivered the decisive blow. From an Ezzalzouli free-kick, Nayef Aguerd’s clever touch found Ismail Saibari unmarked at the back post, and the midfielder calmly slotted the ball into the net, sending the home crowd into rapturous celebration.
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At 2-0, Morocco controlled the game entirely, and Cameroon could find no way back. The hosts closed out the match with authority, ending a historic night in Rabat on a high note.
The win also ended a long-standing hoodoo against Cameroon. Morocco had never beaten the Indomitable Lions at AFCON in their previous three encounters and this victory marked just their third win over Cameroon in 13 meetings across all competitions.
“I want to thank the players and the fans,” Morocco head coach Walid Regragui said. “It truly felt like we were playing with 12 players on the pitch. Qualifying for the semi-finals is well deserved, and the players earned it.”
“I congratulate Cameroon for a strong performance and their coach for his good work. Our players gave everything, and when they stay focused, things go well. I am very happy with what they showed,” he added.
