Morocco’s historic run in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations continued as they triumphed 2-0 over Cameroon in front of a passionate crowd of over 64,000 fans at the Prince Moulay Abdellaziz Stadium in Rabat. This victory propelled Morocco into the semi-finals for the first time since 2004, with their sights set on winning the tournament on home soil.
Díaz and Saibari Seal the Win
The match saw two crucial goals from Brahim Díaz and Ismael Saibari. Morocco came out strong, dominating possession and pinning Cameroon deep in their half with their fluid passing and high pressing game. Díaz opened the scoring in the 26th minute following a chaotic corner from Achraf Hakimi. The ball was flicked on by Ayoub El Kaabi, and Díaz, showing remarkable composure, guided a header past Cameroon’s goalkeeper Devis Epassy for his fifth goal in five matches at his first AFCON tournament.
The hosts continued to control the match, with Cameroon unable to break through Morocco’s defense. Morocco’s wide players, particularly Ez Abde, were instrumental in breaking the lines and creating space. El Kaabi nearly doubled the lead just before halftime, but his shot went into the side netting.
Saibari’s Clincher
The second half saw Morocco maintain control, with Cameroon growing increasingly frustrated. Referee decisions and the tension of the game added to their struggles. Although Cameroon pressed forward, they found little success in breaking down Morocco’s defense, with Georges-Kévin Nkoudou and Bryan Mbeumo providing some moments of creativity but failing to get past Yassine Bounou, who was solid in goal.
In the 73rd minute, Morocco sealed the victory. After a foul by Cameroon, Ez Abde’s free kick found Nayef Aguerd at the back post. His subtle touch set up Ismael Saibari, who coolly controlled the ball and fired a left-footed shot into the bottom corner, making it 2-0. The stadium erupted in celebration as Morocco looked increasingly poised to make a deep run in the tournament.
Expert Game Management
With the game at 2-0, Morocco expertly saw out the final stages, slowing the pace and rotating their squad to manage the lead. Cameroon’s late attacks lacked precision, and Bounou remained largely untroubled as the final whistle blew.
Morocco’s Semi-Final Dreams Continue
The victory sent Morocco into the semi-finals, marking their best AFCON performance in nearly two decades. With Díaz in sublime form and Saibari adding key contributions from midfield, the Atlas Lions appear to be a well-rounded and formidable side as they continue their pursuit of AFCON glory.
Cameroon’s Disappointment
For Cameroon, the loss was a disappointing exit, as they were unable to extend their strong historical record against host nations. Despite showing resilience, they couldn’t break down a well-drilled Moroccan team, and their tournament hopes came to an end.
Morocco now awaits the winner of the match between Algeria and Nigeria, with the semi-finals set to take place on Wednesday.
