The second quarter-final match in the AFCON 2025 sees host nation Morocco take on Cameroon, and it promises to be a thrilling contest for a number of reasons at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
Cameroon has played against the hosts of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 13 times. They have lost only twice and remain unbeaten in their last six matches in these situations. In knockout rounds, Cameroon has eliminated the host teams five times.
When Morocco last hosted the tournament in 1988, it was Cameroon that claimed the title. It was the tournament’s 16th edition.
Back then, attacking midfielder Cyrille Makanaky scored the only goal at the Casablanca V Stadium to eliminate Morocco. The Indomitable Lions won the 1988 AFCON by defeating Nigeria, with Emmanuel Kundé playing a key role and scoring the only goal.
Will history repeat itself as Morocco seeks to avenge its painful loss from 1988? We’ll find out soon enough – kickoff on Friday, January 9 at 20:00 hrs.
How do they progress to this stage?
Morocco advanced to the quarter-finals with a narrow 1–0 victory over Tanzania on January 4, thanks to Brahim Diaz’s goal in the 64th minute, assisted by captain Achraf Hakimi.
The Atlas Lions topped Group A with seven points, securing wins against Comoros (2–0) and Zambia (3–0) and a draw with Mali (1–1), finishing with a +5 goal difference.
In contrast, Cameroon progressed after a hard-fought 2–1 win over South Africa on January 5, with goals from Christian Kofane and Junior Tchamadeu, despite Evidence Makgopa’s late strike for South Africa.
Cameroon also collected seven points in the group stage, achieving a 1–0 win over Gabon, a draw with the Ivory Coast, and a 2–1 comeback against Mozambique through strong defensive organisation and quick counter-attacks.
