Morocco advance to AFCON semi-finals for the first time since 2004

Morocco entered the quarter-finals after edging past Tanzania 1-0 in the round of 16, while Cameroon also faced a tough challenge to overcome South Africa. From the opening whistle, however, the hosts asserted control, applying sustained pressure on a Cameroon side led by Bryan Mbeumo.

That dominance paid off in the 26th minute. From an Achraf Hakimi corner, Ayoub El Kaabi headed the ball across goal to Brahim Díaz, who calmly finished to score his fifth goal of the tournament. Morocco continued to look dangerous from set pieces, creating several chances, but were unable to add to their lead before the break.

The hosts finally doubled their advantage in the 74th minute. Abde Ezzalzouli’s free kick found Ismael Saibari, who controlled the ball and placed his finish into the bottom-right corner. Cameroon were unable to mount a response, and the match ended 2-0 in Morocco’s favour.

After the game, Man of the Match Ismael Saibari said: “It was a very tough match with a lot of intensity. We were strong defensively and, in attack, we managed to score two goals. We work very well as a group in the Moroccan national team and know each other well. We are fighting together to win the title.

“We have now reached the semi-finals and our aim is to go all the way to the final. Our fans supported us massively and never doubted us. We will now rest, wait to see our semi-final opponent, and then start preparing while correcting the mistakes we made earlier.”

Morocco head coach Walid Regragui also praised his team and the home support. “I want to thank the players and the fans. It truly felt like we were playing with 12 players on the pitch. Qualifying for the semi-finals is well deserved, and the players earned it. I congratulate Cameroon for a strong performance and their coach for his good work. Our players gave everything, and when they stay focused, things go well. I am very happy with what they showed.

“Brahim Díaz is a special player, and I congratulate him for his performances. We must remain humble because every team wants to beat us, and we must respect all our opponents. Since 2004, Morocco had not reached the semi-finals, and now we are aiming to write history.”

In the semi-finals, Morocco will face the winner of the quarter-final between Algeria and Nigeria. The match is scheduled for 3:00 AM on January 15 (GMT+7). In the other match, Senegal secured their place in the last four with a 1-0 victory over Mali.