Fans Surround Atlas Lions Bus as Morocco Eyes AFCON Revenge Against Cameroon
9 January 2026
Outside the Bus: A City’s Roar
Morocco’s supporters blocked the Atlas Lions’ bus coming from the Mohammed VI complex just before entering the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, as they prepared for the Africa Cup of Nations quarterfinal against Cameroon.
Kooora’s cameras captured chants from hundreds of fans shouting coach Walid Regragui’s name and star Achraf Hakimi, with banners reading 'The people want CAN', echoing calls for revenge for the 1988 semifinal loss to Cameroon in their own backyard.
Hakimi’s reaction
In a lively atmosphere, captain Achraf Hakimi signaled victory as fans surged toward the stands at Rabat’s vast arena, with expectations of more than 66,000 red-clad supporters; gates would close for the first time amid the hope that Regragui’s side can ride the crowd’s energy to a positive result.
As kickoff approaches, Hakimi acknowledged the crowd, and supporters hoped the atmosphere could tilt the balance in favor of the hosts on a night that promises drama and national pride.
At the same time, the Cameroon side booked a spot in the quarters after a tight 2-1 win over South Africa, signaling a duel between two continental heavyweights on the big stage.
Early final
The meeting is described by many as an 'early final' given the historic weight and continental pedigree of both nations. Morocco, playing on home soil, aims to lift Africa’s crown for the first time since 1976, while the 'Indomitable Lions' pursue a seventh continental title and to reinforce their status among Africa’s most decorated teams.
Morocco’s supporters know that every roar matters, and the players will be counting on the home advantage to push through to the semis and keep the dream alive.
Final preface: a night where legends could be written in Rabat, and where both nations aim to add a new chapter to their storied rivalry, capped by a stadium that could shake with every heartbeat of the crowd.
Punchline time: If the crowd’s energy could be bottled, Rabat would be a 24-pack of adrenaline. Sniper punchline 2: May the ball find the net as cleanly as my coffee finds its crema—soon, loudly, and with style.
