Senegal booked their place in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 semi-finals with a tense 1-0 victory over Mali on Friday, extending their strong knockout run and keeping their title ambitions alive in Morocco. Meanwhile, Cameroon’s bid for the last four ended as host nation Morocco produced a commanding 2-0 performance in Rabat to advance to the semi-finals.
At the Grand Stade de Tanger, Senegal’s breakthrough came in the 27th minute through Iliman Ndiaye, who reacted quickest to a loose ball inside the penalty area after goalkeeper Djigui Diarra failed to control a cross. Ndiaye’s calm finish proved decisive in a match where clear openings were at a premium.
Senegal’s maiden lead was aided by a significant moment just before half-time: Mali captain Yves Bissouma received a second yellow card, leaving his side to play the second half with ten men. That dismissal visibly shifted the balance, allowing Senegal to manage the tempo and protect their advantage with tactical discipline.
The Lions of Teranga, champions in 2021, demonstrated control and composure as Mali pushed for a way back into the contest. Despite several key saves by Diarra, including one from a close-range effort after the break, Senegal maintained their defensive organisation to seal the win.
The victory keeps Senegal’s unbeaten AFCON streak intact at the tournament and marks their third semi-final appearance in the last four editions. The team will now face either Egypt or holders Ivory Coast in the last four, with that quarter-final set to be completed on Saturday.
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Meanwhile, in Rabat, Morocco ended Cameroon’s campaign in front of a packed Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium. The Atlas Lions controlled much of the contest and converted pressure into goals in both halves.
Real Madrid forward Brahim Díaz opened the scoring in the 26th minute, turning home from close range off a header flick-on from Ayoub El Kaabi’s corner delivery. The goal was a continuation of Díaz’s prolific run, his fifth of the tournament, and gave Morocco a vital lead against the Indomitable Lions.
Morocco’s dominance continued after the interval, and in the 74th minute Ismael Saibari doubled the advantage with a composed finish at the back post after a set-piece routine unsettled Cameroon’s defence. The home side’s efficiency was reflective of a confident performance under tournament pressure.
Cameroon, who had reached the quarter-finals by overcoming South Africa in the round of 16, struggled to create meaningful chances and rarely threatened Morocco’s goal. A potential penalty appeal for Bryan Mbeumo late in the game went unheeded by the referee, leaving the Lions’ hopes unfulfilled.
The win secured Morocco’s first semi-final place at AFCON since 2004. They will now await the winner of Saturday’s quarter-final between Algeria and Nigeria in the last four, with the semi-finals scheduled for January 14.
As the tournament edges closer to its climax on January 18 in Rabat, Senegal and Morocco now stand on the brink of a potential historic run, each hoping to lift Africa’s most prestigious football prize. Senegal remain unbeaten and tactically sound, while Morocco ride a wave of home support amid resurgent form.
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