AFCON 2025: Morocco beat Cameroon to set up semifinal clash with Algeria or Nigeria

Morocco booked their spot in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations semi-finals with a commanding 2-0 victory over Cameroon at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium on Friday night.

The Atlas Lions, champions in 1976, became the second team to advance to the last four after Senegal’s earlier triumph. They will now face either Algeria or Nigeria in a highly anticipated semi-final clash at the same venue on January 14.

Cameroon’s Dream Ends

For Cameroon, hopes of clinching a sixth AFCON crown were dashed as they struggled to match the intensity of the tournament hosts. Coach David Pagou’s side will return home and are expected to regroup with friendly matches scheduled for March 2026.

Diaz Strikes First

Tournament top scorer Brahim Diaz and full-back Achraf Hakimi were constant threats from the outset. Their combination paid off in the 26th minute when Hakimi’s corner found Ayoub El Kaabi, whose header was turned in by Diaz for his fifth goal of the tournament and 13th international strike. Morocco went into the break 1-0 up and firmly in control.

Saibari Seals It

Cameroon improved after the restart, introducing the lively Georges-Kévin Nkoudou in the 58th minute, but they failed to seriously test Yassine Bounou in goal. Morocco then punished them in the 75th minute when Ismael Saibari scored his first goal of the tournament, finishing calmly after a clever pass from Nayef Aguerd.

The hosts saw out the game comfortably to secure a deserved win and keep their AFCON dream alive.

Full-Time:
Cameroon 0
Morocco (1) 2 (Diaz 26’, Saibari 75’)