Host, Morocco, booked a place in the semifinals of the 2025 CAF Africa Cup of Nations on Friday after securing a 2–0 victory over Cameroon at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
Brahim Diaz opened the scoring in the first half to continue his impressive form at the tournament, while Ismael Saibari added a second goal after the break to seal the win for the Atlas Lions.
Morocco took control of the match early and were rewarded in the 26th minute when Diaz broke through Cameroon’s defence to give the home side the lead. The goal marked his fifth consecutive scoring appearance at the tournament.
Cameroon, who finished second in their group behind Ivory Coast and eliminated South Africa in the round of 16, struggled to break down Morocco’s disciplined backline. The Indomitable Lions had a strong appeal for a penalty in the second half following a challenge on Bryan Mbeumo, but play was waved on.
Although Morocco created few clear chances, they were clinical with the opportunities that came their way. Saibari doubled the advantage in the 74th minute to put the result beyond doubt.
Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou was largely untroubled as Cameroon failed to register a shot on target throughout the encounter.
Morocco, who topped Group A ahead of Mali and defeated Tanzania in the last 16, will now face the winner of Saturday’s quarterfinal between Nigeria and Algeria. The semifinal clash is scheduled to take place in Rabat on Wednesday.
Earlier on Friday, Senegal advanced to the semifinals after edging Mali 1–0 in the first quarterfinal of the day, while Egypt are set to face Ivory Coast in another quarterfinal encounter.
