Morocco secured a 2-0 victory over Cameroon in the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 quarter-final in Rabat, advancing to the semi-finals with goals from Brahim Díaz and Ismael Saibari. The hosts dominated through set pieces, while Cameroon struggled to break through a solid defense. This win extends Morocco's strong tournament run as hosts.
The match on January 9, 2026, at 19:00 GMT in Rabat began with a scrappy opening, marked by fouls and stoppages that disrupted rhythm for both sides. Morocco gradually took control, using set pieces and wide play to force early corners. Their pressure paid off in the 26th minute when Brahim Díaz reacted first inside the six-yard box to score from close range, following a corner kept alive by Ayoub El Kaabi.
Cameroon responded with urgency before halftime, creating threats from their own set pieces. Christian Kofane and Nouhou Tolo headed narrowly wide, but Morocco's back line remained firm. The first half ended 1-0 to Morocco amid increasing physicality and several yellow cards.
The second half saw Cameroon push higher up the pitch, while Morocco sought to exploit counter-attacks. Goalkeeper Devis Epassy made a key save to deny Ismael Saibari shortly after the restart. Abde Ezzalzouli and Ayoub El Kaabi came close for Morocco, who continued to generate better chances.
The game was sealed in the 74th minute from another set piece: Nayef Aguerd's knockdown found Saibari, who guided a low left-footed shot into the far corner. Cameroon pressed late, earning corners and forcing blocks, but could not score. Morocco managed the closing stages professionally despite further stoppages.
This result sends Morocco into the semi-finals against the winner of Algeria vs Nigeria. Cameroon, five-time champions, exit after a strong group stage and round-of-16 win over South Africa. Morocco, hosting the tournament, have now kept three clean sheets, conceding only once overall and none from open play.
