Morocco and Senegal Secure Semi-Final Spots in TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations
The Atlas Lions of Morocco and the Lions of Teranga of Senegal have advanced to the semi-finals of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations after winning their respective quarter-final matches. Morocco defeated Cameroon 2-0 at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, while Senegal edged Mali 1-0 at the Grand Stade de Tanger.
Morocco’s victory was marked by goals from Brahim Díaz and Ismail Saibari, with Díaz becoming the second player in AFCON history to score in five consecutive matches. The win also ended a long-standing hoodoo against Cameroon, with Morocco securing only their third victory over the Indomitable Lions in 13 encounters.
In the other quarter-final match, Senegal’s Iliman Ndiaye scored the only goal of the game, capitalizing on a goalkeeping error by Mali’s Djigui Diarra. The match was intense, with both teams battling for control in midfield, but Senegal’s composure and tactical discipline ultimately paid off. Mali’s task was made more difficult when captain Yves Bissouma was sent off in added time at the end of the first half, forcing the Eagles to play the entire second half with a numerical disadvantage.
Both Morocco and Senegal will now face tough opponents in the semi-finals, with Morocco set to take on the winner of the match between Algeria and Nigeria, and Senegal facing the winner of the match between record champions Egypt and holders Cote D’Ivoire.
The victories have significant implications for the tournament, with Morocco aiming to win their second AFCON title and Senegal seeking to repeat their 2021 triumph. The semi-finals are expected to be highly competitive, with all four teams demonstrating their skills and determination throughout the tournament.
In post-match reactions, Morocco’s coach Walid Regragui praised his players and fans, saying, “Qualifying for the semi-finals is well deserved, and the players earned it.” Senegal’s coach Pape Thiaw noted that his team had achieved their objective, but acknowledged that they had faced a tough opponent in Mali. The stage is now set for an exciting semi-final round, with the winners advancing to the final and the losers competing for third place.
