AFCON 2025 – Cameroon vs Morocco: Preview, Team News, Head-to-Head & Where to Watch

Cameroon will lock horns with tournament hosts Morocco in a highly anticipated Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) quarter-final at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on Friday.

Kick-off is scheduled for 9:00 PM CAT.

Current Form

The Indomitable Lions booked their spot in the last eight after edging South Africa 2-1 in the Round of 16 on January 4, extending their unbeaten run to four matches across all competitions, including three wins. That hard-fought victory over the 1996 AFCON champions has fueled Cameroon’s ambition to claim a sixth continental crown, bringing them closer to Egypt’s record of seven titles.

Morocco, meanwhile, were pushed to the limit in their Round of 16 tie against Tanzania, securing a narrow 1-0 win on the same day. The Atlas Lions have now stretched their unbeaten streak to an incredible 23 matches, featuring a world-record 19 consecutive victories. With home advantage and passionate fans behind them, Morocco are dreaming of ending a decades-long drought—their only AFCON triumph came in 1976.

The winner of this heavyweight showdown will face either Algeria or Nigeria in the semi-finals on January 14, also at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.

Team News

Cameroon have no suspension concerns, but all eyes will be on Darlin Yongwa’s fitness after he was forced off with an injury against South Africa. His availability could be crucial for Rigobert Song’s side.

Morocco, on the other hand, suffered a major blow with midfielder Azzedine Ounahi ruled out for the rest of the tournament due to a calf muscle tear. Despite this setback, the hosts have no suspension worries.

What They Said

Carlos Baleba (Cameroon midfielder):
“Yes, we are going to face Morocco, which is a strong side in African football. We are on a good run, and it’s up to us to keep a cool head and continue like this. Our mindset is very positive; we play for each other, and that is what makes our team strong.”

Walid Regragui (Morocco head coach):
“Playing with an open chest is neither necessary nor mandatory in all matches, including the upcoming Cameroon match. Therefore, we will look at and read the opponent and prepare as we should. In order to win, we must be very humble and make great sacrifices.”

Head-to-Head

Cameroon and Morocco have faced each other 13 times since their first meeting in November 1981. The Indomitable Lions hold the upper hand with six wins, while the Atlas Lions have claimed two victories, and five encounters ended in draws.

Their most recent clash came in the 2020 CHAN semi-final, where Morocco cruised to a 4-0 win at Limbe Stadium in February 2021.