Morocco Marches On: Diaz Scores Twice as Hosts Reach AFCON Semis
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Morocco kept their title dreams alive with a 2-0 win over Cameroon in their quarter-final clash on Friday. The hosts, led by Brahim Diaz's fifth goal in five matches at the tournament, secured a semi-final spot against the winner of the Algeria-Nigeria tie. Diaz's decisive touch on Ayoub El Kaabi's 26th-minute header set the tone for the match, followed by Ismael Saibari's strike in the second half. Morocco dominated the game, creating multiple scoring opportunities, while Cameroon struggled to make an impact. The Indomitable Lions, five-time African champions, were hoping to spring an upset but were unable to break down the Moroccan defense. Manchester United forward Bryan Mbeumo struggled to make an impact, and Cameroon's change of formation in the second half failed to yield the desired result. Morocco, Africa's top-ranked team, are under immense pressure to win the Cup of Nations in front of their own fans, but they remain on course to achieve their objective. The hosts have not reached the AFCON semi-finals since their loss to Tunisia in 2004. With their unbeaten record intact since their defeat by South Africa in 2024, Morocco will look to continue their momentum in the semi-finals. Cameroon, fresh from knocking out South Africa in the last round, were unable to frustrate the home side, and their early loss of right wing-back Jackson Tchamadeu did not help their cause. Saibari's second-half goal sealed the win for Morocco, who will face a tougher test in the semi-finals against the winner of the Algeria-Nigeria tie. The hosts will look to capitalize on their momentum and make history by winning the Cup of Nations in front of their fans.
