Whichever way you look at it, Friday’s Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals delivered drama, heartbreak, and a clear message: Morocco and Senegal are ready to challenge for the 2025 title.

Morocco’s clinical display

Brahim Diaz continued his incredible form, scoring for the fifth consecutive game, as hosts Morocco defeated Cameroon 2-0 in Rabat to keep alive hopes of a first continental title in 50 years.

Ismael Saibari added the second goal in a match defined more by efficiency than flair.

Morocco converted two of their three shots on target, while Cameroon struggled to trouble goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.

A second-half penalty appeal for Bryan Mbeumo was waved away, leaving the Indomitable Lions unable to break through.

Morocco now awaits the winner of Saturday’s quarter-final clash between Algeria and Nigeria, with the semi-final set to be played in Rabat on Wednesday.

Ndiaye Shines for Senegal

Senegal booked a semi-final berth for the third time in the last four tournaments with a 1-0 win over a stubborn, 10-man Mali side.

Iliman Ndiaye netted the decisive goal after 27 minutes, capitalising on a goalkeeping error by Djigui Diarra.

Mali captain Yves Bissouma was sent off just after halftime, reducing his team to 10 men and leaving Senegal in control. Despite Diarra’s heroic saves in the second half, Mali could not find a way back.

“It was not an easy match because we played against a very talented Mali team, but we achieved our objective,” Senegal coach Pape Bouna Thiaw said.

“If we had been more clinical, we could have scored more, but the most important thing is reaching the semi-final.”

Mali coach Tom Saintfiet paid tribute to his side: “Playing large parts of the game with 10 men was difficult, but my players fought gallantly and gave their all.”

Senegal will face the winner of Egypt versus the defending champions Ivory Coast, in their semi-final.

The talking point

Rising Stars. Diaz and Ndiaye have cemented themselves as key figures in their nations’ Africa Cup of Nations campaigns, proving decisive when it matters most.

Key information

Morocco 2-0 Cameroon: Goals by Brahim Diaz, Ismael Saibari

Senegal 1-0 Mali: Goal by Iliman Ndiaye

Cameroon: Key player Bryan Mbeumo denied a penalty

Mali: Captain Yves Bissouma was sent off at halftime

Semi-final fixtures: Morocco vs Algeria/Nigeria winner; Senegal vs Egypt/Ivory Coast winner.