Morocco advanced to the semifinals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on Friday night with a commanding 2–0 victory over Cameroon.
After 90 minutes of intense play, Morocco won the match with goals in either half of the quarterfinal match at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
The Atlas Lions thus continue their African dream on home soil in front of a jubilant crowd twenty-two years after their last appearance in the continental semifinals and final in 2024 in Tunis.
The match, officiated by Mauritanian referee Dahane Beida, began at a high tempo, with both sides exchanging attacks from the opening minutes.
Morocco broke the deadlock in the 26th minute when tournament top scorer Ibrahim Diaz found the net, piercing Cameroon’s defense to give the hosts a deserved lead.
Despite several chances for both teams, a lack of composure in front of goal prevented any further scoring before halftime, with Morocco heading into the break 1-0 ahead under the guidance of coach Walid Regragui.
The Atlas Lions pushed for an early second goal after the restart to secure qualification, while Cameroon sought an equalizer. Morocco’s defense, however, remained well organized and denied the Indomitable Lions clear opportunities.
Morocco sealed the win in the 74th minute through Ismael Saibari, who scored the second goal to confirm his team’s dominance and book a place in the semifinals.
Senegal have also sealed their place in the semi-finals after a gripping encounter with Mali that ended with a 1 to 0 win.
Morocco’s last trial to reach the final will be against the winner of the clash between Nigeria and Algeria scheduled for Saturday at 5 p.m. local time.
The semifinals match will be played on Wednesday at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.
