"Few gave Cameroon much of a chance in the Africa Cup of Nations after off-the-field issues marred their build-up to the tournament but the Indomitable Lions stood firm in the face of adversity to reach the quarterfinals in Morocco. The five-time champions are up against the hosts in Friday's last-eight tie, knowing the pressure is firmly on the North Africans as they look to win a first AFCON title in 50 years in front of their home supporters."
"With high-profile players such as Brahim Diaz, Achraf Hakimi, Bryan Mbeumo and Carlos Baleba involved, there will be no shortage of talent on display in Rabat. Here's everything you need to know about Cameroon vs Morocco: Cameroon have spent the last 18 months embroiled in a bizarre battle of wills between their federation, headed by four-time African Footballer of the Year Samuel Eto'o, and the sports ministry, which employs the coach."
"Head coach Marc Brys was employed against Eto'o's wishes, and the pair sparred publicly throughout the 21 months that the Belgian managed the team. Brys had the backing of the government, which pays the team's costs, leaving a frustrated Eto'o undermining his coach whenever he could but being unable to get rid of him. Ultimately, Cameroon, who have been to more FIFA World Cups than any other African nation, had a dismal qualifying campaign and failed to make the cut for the 2026 edition."
Morocco host five-time champions Cameroon in an AFCON quarterfinal at Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium on Friday, January 9. Cameroon overcame off-field turmoil to reach the last eight despite a turbulent 18-month period marked by conflict between the federation led by Samuel Eto'o and the sports ministry. Head coach Marc Brys was appointed amid disputes, enjoyed government backing, and was sacked three weeks before the tournament after poor World Cup qualifying and Eto'o's strengthened position. Morocco face intense pressure to win their first AFCON title in 50 years at home. Both sides feature high-profile players including Brahim Diaz, Achraf Hakimi, Bryan Mbeumo and Carlos Baleba.
Read at www.aljazeera.com
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