Morocco secured a 2-0 victory over Cameroon in the Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final on Friday, booking their first semi-final appearance since 2004. Goals from Brahim Díaz and Ismael Saibari in either half gave the hosts a deserved win in front of a jubilant home crowd.
Díaz opened the scoring in the first half, and Saibari doubled the lead in the 75th minute with a well-taken finish from a free kick. Cameroon, who have now lost to Morocco in three consecutive Afcon knockout matches, struggled to create clear chances and rarely threatened the Moroccan goal.
The result marks a significant milestone for Morocco, who have failed to progress beyond the quarter-finals since losing the 2004 final to Tunisia. Their recent Afcon record includes group-stage exits, a disqualification, and last-16 defeats, making this run particularly notable.
Morocco will face either Algeria or Nigeria in the semi-finals. The hosts have conceded just one goal in the tournament so far, highlighting their defensive solidity under coach Walid Regragui.
Cameroon, despite a spirited effort, could not find a way past goalkeeper Yassine Bounou. Their best chance came in the 71st minute when Georges-Kévin N'Koudou headed wide from a corner. Bryan Mbeumo also had a penalty appeal turned down after contact in the box.
