Host nation Morocco secured a place in the semifinals of the 2025 CAF Africa Cup of Nations on Friday with a convincing 2–0 victory over Cameroon at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
Brahim Diaz continued his fine run of form by opening the scoring in the first half, before Ismael Saibari added a second after the break to seal the win for the Atlas Lions.
Morocco dominated the early stages and were rewarded in the 26th minute when Diaz broke through Cameroon’s defence to put the hosts ahead. The strike marked his fifth consecutive game with a goal at the tournament.
Cameroon, who finished second in their group behind Ivory Coast and knocked out South Africa in the round of 16, found it difficult to penetrate Morocco’s organised defence. The Indomitable Lions did appeal for a penalty in the second half after Bryan Mbeumo went down in the box, but the referee allowed play to continue.
While Morocco created limited clear-cut chances, they made the most of their opportunities. Saibari doubled the lead in the 74th minute to put the result beyond doubt.
Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou had a quiet evening as Cameroon failed to record a single shot on target throughout the match.
Morocco, who topped Group A ahead of Mali and overcame Tanzania in the last 16, will now face the winner of Saturday’s quarterfinal between Nigeria and Algeria. The semifinal is scheduled for Wednesday in Rabat.
Earlier on Friday, Senegal booked their place in the semifinals with a 1–0 win over Mali, while Egypt are set to take on Ivory Coast in another quarterfinal clash.
