Host nation Morocco have ended their long wait for an Africa Cup of Nations semi-final, booking their place in the last four for the first time in over two decades with a 2-0 victory over Cameroon in Friday's quarter-final clash.
Diaz Continues Remarkable Scoring Streak
The Atlas Lions took the lead in the 26th minute through the in-form Brahim Diaz. The Real Madrid star showed sharp instincts to deflect Ayoub El Kaabi's headed effort from an Achraf Hakimi corner into the net from close range. This marked Diaz's fifth goal in as many games at the tournament, extending his own record for the most goals by a Moroccan player at a single Cup of Nations finals.
Morocco's performance was efficient rather than spectacular, with the team creating few clear chances. They scored from two of their only three shots on target throughout the match. Cameroon had a strong penalty appeal waved away in the second half when Bryan Mbeumo appeared to be fouled in the box, but referee Dahane Beida allowed play to continue.
Saibari Seals Historic Victory
The Indomitable Lions struggled to test Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, failing to force a single save from him in the entire 90 minutes. Their best opportunity fell to Georges-Kevin Nkoudou, who headed wide at the back post.
Morocco killed the contest minutes later to secure their historic win. Ismael Saibari was left completely unmarked at the back post, allowing him time to control the ball and fire a low shot into the far corner of the net. The goal provided crucial breathing space and confirmed Morocco's progression.
A slight concern for coach Walid Regragui emerged late on as goalscorer Diaz left the pitch with a heavily strapped thigh. Morocco, who are yet to concede a goal in open play at the finals, will now face the winner of Saturday's quarter-final between Algeria and Nigeria. That semi-final tie is scheduled for Wednesday in Rabat.
Senegal Join Morocco in the Semi-Finals
In Friday's other Afcon quarter-final, Senegal booked their place in the semi-finals for the third time in the last four tournaments. Iliman Ndiaye scored the only goal after 27 minutes, capitalising on a goalkeeping error to secure a 1-0 win over 10-man Mali.
Mali's task was made harder when captain Yves Bissouma was sent off on the stroke of half-time for a second bookable offence. Despite playing with ten men for the second half, as they did in their previous match against Tunisia, Mali could not find an equaliser against a disciplined Senegalese side.
