Tournament hosts Morocco national football team produced a commanding performance in Rabat to book their place in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) semi-finals, defeating Cameroon national football team 2-0 in front of a passionate home crowd.
Goals from Brahim DÃaz and Ismael Saibari ensured the Atlas Lions continued their impressive march at the tournament, stretching their unbeaten run to a remarkable 22 matches.
Electric Start in Rabat Sets the Tone
Roared on by thousands at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, Morocco wasted no time asserting their authority. Early crosses and sustained pressure pinned Cameroon deep, forcing the Indomitable Lions into a defensive shell.
Despite the early onslaught, Cameroon skipper Nouhou Tolo led by example, making crucial interventions to keep the contest level during the opening exchanges.
Brahim DÃaz Makes AFCON History
Morocco’s dominance finally paid off in the 26th minute. A well-worked move ended with Ayoub El Kaabi nodding the ball to Brahim DÃaz, who calmly guided his finish past Devis Epassy.
The strike was DÃaz’s fifth goal of the tournament, a historic feat that underlined his importance to Morocco’s AFCON campaign. The hosts almost doubled their advantage before half-time, but efforts from Abde Ezzalzouli and El Kaabi drifted narrowly wide.
Cameroon Push, Morocco Control
Trailing at the break, Cameroon emerged with renewed intent and enjoyed more possession early in the second half. However, possession failed to translate into genuine danger.
Morocco remained sharper in attack, with Ezzalzouli again going close, while Cameroon’s attacking threats Bryan Mbeumo and Christian Kofane were expertly neutralised. Substitute Georges-Kévin Nkoudou had a rare chance, but headed wide from close range.
Saibari Seals It in Style
Any lingering hopes of a Cameroon comeback were extinguished in the 74th minute. Ezzalzouli’s inviting cross found Saibari, who showed composure beyond his years to control and fire a superb left-footed shot into the far corner.
The goal sparked celebrations around the stadium and effectively sealed Morocco’s place in the semi-finals, where they will face either the Nigeria national football team or Algeria national football team.
Why This Matters for African Football Fans in Kenya
For Kenyan football fans, Morocco’s rise highlights the growing tactical discipline and attacking quality within African football. With AFCON attracting massive interest across East Africa, matches like this underline why the tournament remains one of the most exciting competitions globally..
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Final Word
A clinical and composed Morocco proved too strong for five-time champions Cameroon, combining flair, discipline, and ruthless finishing. With home support behind them and history within reach, the Atlas Lions look every bit like genuine AFCON title contenders as the tournament heads into its decisive phase.
