Diaz fires Morocco past Cameroon to keep first AFCON title dream alive

RABAT: Brahim Diaz kept up his remarkable Africa Cup of Nations scoring record, as host nation Morocco triumphed 2-0 over Cameroon in their quarter-final encounter here at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium on Friday, maintaining their pursuit of a first continental title in 50 years.

Diaz opened the scoring in the 26th minute, reacting quickly after Ayoub El Kaabi headed Achraf Hakimi’s corner towards goal. The Real Madrid forward diverted the ball home from close range to give Morocco a deserved lead.

However, coach Walid Regragui will be concerned after Diaz was forced off late on with a severely strained thigh. Despite his injury, the goal further cemented Diaz’s status as the most prolific Moroccan scorer in a single AFCON tournament.

Morocco was efficient rather than fluent, making the most of their chances. Ismael Saibari earlier missed a headed opportunity, while Abde Ezzalzouli nodded narrowly over from another Hakimi corner.

Cameroon struggled to break down a well-organised Moroccan defence and failed to force goalkeeper Yassine Bounou into a single save. Georges-Kevin Nkoudou’s wide header at the back post was their clearest chance of the match.

The Indomitable Lions were left furious when referee Dahane Beida waved play on despite Bryan Mbeumo appearing to be fouled in the penalty area.

Morocco sealed the victory late on when Saibari, left unmarked at the far post, controlled the ball expertly before firing low into the corner.

The hosts, who have yet to concede a goal from open play in the tournament, will face the winner of the Algeria versus Nigeria clash in the semi-finals in Rabat on Wednesday.