AFCON: Cameroon coach blames second goal for Morocco defeat

Cameroon head coach David Pagou conceded that the second goal from Morocco denied them a comeback during their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) quarterfinal fixture in Morocco on Friday.

The Indomitable Lions’ journey came to and end after going down 2-0 against the hosts in battle played at a sold-out Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium. Goals in either half from Brahim Díaz and Ismail Saibari sealed a memorable triumph for the Atlas Lions.

Speaking after the game, Pagou admitted the second goal put the game beyond his players, who were fighting to level matters and even win the game.

Cameroon competed well against Morocco

“I am proud of my players. We competed well against Morocco and we leave the tournament with our heads held high. We faced some difficulties, but we came back well in the second half,” Pagou told CAFOnline.com.

“The second goal we conceded decided the match. Overall, I am satisfied with the performance. We have a young and new squad, and the players deserve credit for their efforts for the Cameroonian people.

“There is a bright future for our young players, many of whom are playing in continental competition for the first time. We have learned many lessons and leave the tournament with a lot of positives.”

The 2017 AFCON was the last tournament to date Cameroon has won.