Morocco and Senegal have secured their spots in the semifinals of the Africa Cup of Nations, joining the competition’s elite with convincing wins over Cameroon and Mali, respectively.
Brahim Díaz was once again on the scoreboard, extending his Moroccan record by netting in a fifth consecutive game at the tournament. His goal in the 27th minute, courtesy of Ayoub El Kaabi’s header from a corner, set the tone for Morocco’s 2-0 victory over Cameroon. Díaz’s goal was met with a mix of surprise and elation, as he shrugged off the achievement. Ismael Saibari sealed the win with a low shot inside the far post in the 74th minute, following a corner kick.
This marks the first time Morocco has defeated Cameroon in five meetings at the Africa Cup, ending the Indomitable Lions’ campaign. Morocco will face either Nigeria or Algeria in the semifinals on Wednesday. Cameroon, a five-time champion, was unable to capitalize on its sole significant scoring opportunity, which came courtesy of substitute Georges-Kévin Nkoudou.
In the day’s earlier quarterfinal match, Senegal edged out Mali 1-0, thanks to Iliman Ndiaye’s first-half strike. Ndiaye’s goal in the 27th minute was the result of Mali goalkeeper Djigui Diarra’s fumble of Krépin Diatta’s cross. The match was further complicated for Mali when captain Yves Bissouma received a second yellow card before the break, reducing the team to 10 players. Senegal, the 2021 champion, will remain in Tangier, awaiting the winner of the match between Ivory Coast and Egypt in the first semifinal on Wednesday.
Today, the quarterfinals will continue with Algeria facing Nigeria and Egypt taking on Ivory Coast. These matches promise to be thrilling encounters, as the remaining teams vie for a spot in the semifinals. The Africa Cup of Nations has showcased exceptional talent and determination, with the competition heating up as it enters its final stages. The winners of today’s matches will join Morocco and Senegal in the semifinals, setting the stage for a captivating conclusion to the tournament.
