Morocco Beat Cameroon to Reach AFCON 2025 Semi-Finals
Tournament hosts Morocco booked their place in the semi-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with a calm 2-0 victory over five-time champions Cameroon in Rabat.
Roared on by a passionate home crowd at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, the Atlas Lions started brightly. They pressed high and sent several dangerous balls into the box, although Cameroon initially defended well, led by captain Nouhou Tolo.
Morocco’s pressure paid off in the 26th minute. Ayoub El Kaabi won a header from a cross and the ball fell kindly to Brahim Díaz, who calmly guided his shot past goalkeeper Devis Epassy. It was Díaz’s fifth goal of the tournament.
The hosts continued to push for a second goal before half-time. Abde Ezzalzouli and El Kaabi both came close, while Cameroon were happy to go into the break only one goal behind.
After the restart, Cameroon enjoyed more possession but failed to create clear chances. Bryan Mbeumo and Christian Kofane were well marked, while substitute Georges-Kévin Nkoudou headed wide from close range as Morocco’s defence remained organised.
Morocco stayed dangerous going forward and sealed the win in the 74th minute. Ezzalzouli delivered a fine cross to Ismael Saibari, who controlled the ball before firing a left-footed shot into the far corner.
The win extends Morocco’s unbeaten run to 22 matches and sets up a semi-final clash with either Nigeria or Algeria, as the hosts continue their search for a first AFCON title on home soil.
