While,  over in Tanger, Senegal also advanced to the semi-finals after edging neighbours Mali.

Roared on by more than 64,000 passionate supporters at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, Morocco once again leaned on the brilliance of Brahim Díaz. The Real Madrid winger continued his outstanding tournament, scoring his fifth goal in five matches to hand the Atlas Lions the lead before Ismael Saibari sealed the win after the break.

The hosts were full value for their victory and will now face the winner of Saturday’s heavyweight quarter-final between Algeria and Nigeria for a place in the final.

Despite the growing belief sweeping across the country, Morocco coach Walid Regragui urged caution after the match.

“We must take it one game at a time. We have not achieved anything yet,” said Regragui. 

“It is historic – Moroccans have waited 22 years to reach an AFCON semifinal. They deserve it, but we must stay grounded and try to make it even more special.”

Morocco vs. Cameroon. Photo: CAF

As Africa’s top-ranked side and 2022 FIFA World Cup semi-finalists, Morocco entered the tournament under immense pressure to deliver at home. Their last continental title came more than half a century ago, and the weight of expectation has undone many hosts in the past. So far, however, Morocco have answered every question.

Cameroon, five-time African champions, struggled to impose themselves after a troubled build-up to the tournament. Manchester United forward Bryan Mbeumo was well contained as Morocco dominated large spells.

The breakthrough arrived in the 26th minute when Achraf Hakimi’s corner was flicked on by Ayoub El Kaabi, with the ball deflecting in off Díaz to spark scenes of jubilation in the stands. Saibari then put the result beyond doubt in the 74th minute, controlling Abde Ezzalzouli’s delivery at the back post before firing home.

Earlier in Tangiers, Senegal confirmed their status as serious title contenders with a gritty 1–0 win over Mali in a fiery West African derby.

The decisive moment came in the 27th minute when Mali goalkeeper Djigui Diarra fumbled Krépin Diatta’s cross, allowing Iliman Ndiaye to pounce and score. Mali’s task was compounded when captain Yves Bissouma was sent off just before halftime for a second bookable offence.

Mali vs. Senegal. Photo: CAF

Despite several fine second-half saves from Diarra, Senegal’s discipline proved decisive. They will now face either Ivory Coast or record seven-time champions Egypt in the semi-finals.

Meanwhile, on Saturday the other two semi-finalists will be confirmed. At 18:00 in Marrakech, the Desert Foxes of Algeria will take on the Super Eagles of Nigeria in the quarter-finals. At 21:00 its over to Agadir where the Pharaohs of Egypt will be in action against defending champions, Ivory Coast.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek dg