Morocco thrilled their home fans with a convincing victory over Cameroon in the AFCON 2025 quarterfinals. The match took place on January 9, 2026, at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
Goals from Brahim Díaz and Ismael Saibari propelled the hosts into the semifinals for the first time since 2004. This win keeps Morocco’s dream alive as tournament favorites.
Early Pressure from Morocco
From the start, Morocco controlled the game. They earned a penalty claim in the first minute when Bilal El Khannouss lifted the ball onto Samuel Kotto’s arm. However, the referee waved play on.
Abde Ezzalzouli tested Cameroon’s defense with a free kick that Christian Kofane cleared. Additionally, Ezzalzouli sent in a teasing cross that Nouhou Tolo acrobatically headed away.
Cameroon faced an early setback. Junior Tchamadeu left the field in tears after a knee injury in the 24th minute. This forced a substitution and disrupted their rhythm. Meanwhile, Morocco maintained nearly 60% possession and outshot Cameroon five to two in the first half.
Díaz Strikes First
In the 26th minute, Brahim Díaz opened the scoring. Achraf Hakimi delivered a corner that Ayoub El Kaabi headed down. Díaz then deflected the ball past goalkeeper Devis Epassy. This goal marked Díaz’s fifth in five consecutive AFCON matches. He provided constant energy for Morocco.
Later, El Kaabi set up Ezzalzouli for a curling shot that went wide. Morocco’s attack kept pressing, but they led 1-0 at halftime.
Cameroon Responds but Falls Short
After the break, Cameroon pushed forward. Bryan Mbeumo grew more involved and delivered a corner in the 71st minute. Substitute Georges-Kevin Nkoudou met it with a diving header but missed the target. Despite these efforts, Cameroon struggled to break through Morocco’s solid defense.
Samuel Kotto made a crucial goalline clearance soon after the hour mark. He stretched to block a deflected effort from Saibari off Hakimi’s cross.
Saibari Secures the Win
In the 74th minute, Ismael Saibari doubled the lead. Ezzalzouli whipped in a free kick that Nayef Aguerd headed on. Saibari then lashed the ball home unmarked. This goal silenced any comeback hopes for Cameroon.
The home crowd roared throughout. They whistled Cameroon’s possessions and cheered every foul won by Morocco. Coach Walid Regragui’s call for strong support paid off.
Semifinals Await
Morocco now advances to face the winner of Nigeria versus Algeria in Rabat on Wednesday. Cameroon exits with pride after a chaotic buildup, including a coaching change. This victory revives Morocco’s enthusiasm and sets up an exciting semifinal stage.
