Host nation Morocco secured their place in the Africa Cup of Nations semi-finals with a commanding 2-0 victory over five-time champions Cameroon at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on Thursday. Goals from Brahim Díaz and Ismael Saibari ended Cameroon's unbeaten record against the Atlas Lions in AFCON history and sent the home crowd into rapturous celebration.
Real Madrid star Brahim Díaz opened the scoring in the 26th minute, converting from close range after Ayoub El Kaabi's flick-on from a corner. The goal marked Díaz's fifth of the tournament, making him the first player in Africa Cup of Nations history to score in five consecutive matches within a single edition. He is now level with Egyptian legends Mohamed Diab (known as Diba, 1957) and Mohamed Nagy (known as Gedo, 2010) as the most prolific Arab scorer in a single AFCON tournament.
Cameroon, known as the Indomitable Lions, pushed hard for an equalizer but found Morocco's defense resolute. The five-time African champions created several chances but were unable to break through the disciplined Moroccan backline. Coach Marc Brys made tactical adjustments at halftime, but the hosts maintained their composure and control of the match throughout the second half.
The victory was sealed in the 74th minute when Ismael Saibari finished off a well-worked free-kick routine. Ezzalzouli's delivery from the right wing found Saibari beyond the far post, and the PSV Eindhoven midfielder controlled the ball before firing a fierce low shot past goalkeeper Devis Epassy to double Morocco's advantage.
This historic win marks Morocco's first victory over Cameroon in AFCON competition, having previously failed to beat the Central African nation in three encounters (two losses and one draw). The Atlas Lions now advance to the semi-finals for the first time since 2004, when they finished as runners-up. Morocco's only AFCON title came in 1976, and the passionate home support will be hoping this could finally be their year to lift the trophy again.
Morocco will face the winner of Saturday's quarter-final between Algeria and Nigeria in the semi-finals, scheduled for Wednesday, January 14 in Rabat. The Atlas Lions' impressive run, combined with home advantage and Díaz's exceptional form, has made them strong favorites to reach the final.
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