Brahim Diaz continued his outstanding goal-scoring form at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON on Friday night, finding the back of the net to inspire Morocco to defeat Cameroon 2-0 in their quarter-final showdown.
The triumph at the Stade Prince Moulay Abdallah has propelled the Atlas Lions into the semi-finals in what will be their first appearance in the last four stage since 2004.
In Friday’s quarter-final showdown, Morocco had a bright start to the contest, mounting unending pressure on the Cameroonians.
Unfortunately, for the Indomitable Lions, defender Junior Tchamadeu suffered an injury after just 13 minutes. Although he will try to play through the pain, he could not continue and had to be replaced by Junior Dina Ebimbe in the 23rd minute.
Three minutes after the substitution, Morocco broke the deadlock from a corner kick. Ayoub El Kaabi jumped highest to meet the cross with a flick before Brahim Diaz slotted the ball into the back of the net at the back post.
While there will be good attacks from both national teams later on, there will be no other goals before halftime.
In the second half, Cameroon improved their performance and went forward more. Despite their best efforts, the defense of Morocco stood strong and had answers to all their questions, which mostly came from crosses.
Later in the 74th minute, Ismael Saibari sealed the 2-0 win for the Atlas Lions with a fantastic effort from inside the Cameroon box.
With the impressive win, Morocco will now await the winner of the quarter-final tie between Algeria and Nigeria in the semi-finals.
Diaz, who has now scored in five consecutive matches at AFCON 2025, will be key for the hosts heading into the next match.