January 09, (THEWILL) — Brahim Diaz continued his impressive form at the Africa Cup of Nations on Friday, finding the net once more in Morocco’s 2-0 victory over Cameroon at Stade Prince Moulay Abdallah. The result sent the tournament hosts through to the semi-finals for the first time in 21 years.
Morocco will now meet either Algeria or Nigeria in their bid to reach the final. Cameroon, by contrast, failed to trouble the home side’s goalkeeper throughout the contest, managing no attempts on target during the 90 minutes.
The breakthrough arrived midway through the first half when Achraf Hikimi delivered a corner from the right flank. Ayoub El Kaabi met the cross with a header, and Diaz reacted swiftly to guide the ball past Devis Epassy from close range in the 25th minute. Abde Ezzalzouli and El Kaabi both went close to doubling the advantage before the interval, each hitting the side-netting.
Walid Regragui’s team created fewer opportunities after half-time, though Ezzalzouli directed a near-post header just over the bar from another Hakimi set-piece. Morocco wrapped up the win with 16 minutes remaining when a free-kick from Ezzalzouli glanced off Nayef Aguerd’s head, allowing Ismael Saibari to fire home emphatically.
The comfortable triumph ensures Morocco remain on course for a first AFCON title on home soil, with their defensive solidity and clinical finishing proving too much for a subdued Cameroon outfit.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
