Brahim Diaz continued his sensational form at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, scoring for the fifth consecutive match as hosts Morocco defeated Cameroon 2-0 in their quarter-final clash on Friday.
Diaz’s opener and a second-half strike from Ismael Saibari were enough to seal a controlled but unspectacular victory, sending Morocco into the semi-finals as they chase their first AFCON title in 50 years.
Diaz Extends Record-Breaking Run
The breakthrough came in the 26th minute, when Diaz once again showed his poacher’s instinct. A corner from Achraf Hakimi was headed towards goal by Ayoub El Kaabi, with Diaz reacting quickest to divert the ball home from close range.
The Real Madrid forward has now scored in all five of Morocco’s matches at the tournament, extending his record as the highest-scoring Moroccan player at a single AFCON finals. However, there was concern late on as Diaz left the pitch with his thigh heavily strapped, something that may worry head coach Walid Regragui.
Few Chances, Ruthless Morocco
Both sides struggled to create clear-cut opportunities, but Morocco were more clinical, scoring from two of their three shots on target. Abde Ezzalzouli headed narrowly over from another Hakimi corner, while Saibari missed an earlier headed chance before making amends later.
Cameroon had a strong appeal for a second-half penalty when Bryan Mbeumo appeared to be fouled in the box, but referee Dahane Beida waved play on. The Indomitable Lions also came close through Georges-Kevin Nkoudou, who headed wide at the back post.
Saibari Seals It
Morocco wrapped up the contest minutes later when Saibari was left unmarked at the back post, calmly controlling the ball before firing low into the far corner to make it 2-0.
The Atlas Lions have now yet to concede a goal in open play at the tournament and will face the winner of Saturday’s quarter-final between Algeria and Nigeria in the semi-finals. That match is scheduled to take place in Rabat on Wednesday.
Morocco remain firmly on course for a historic AFCON triumph on home soil.
