The second most decorated nation in Africa after Egypt with its seven trophies, Cameroon boasts a unique distinction on the continent: all its Africa Cup of Nations titles have been won away from home. Even more remarkably, with each victory, the Indomitable Lions have had to face the host country, braving the pressure of home fans and the hostility of the stadiums to cement their legendary status. This tradition, as they prepare to face Morocco for a place in the semi-finals, is causing concern among many Moroccan supporters.

This incredible story begins in 1984 in Ivory Coast. During the group stage, Roger Milla's team eliminated Youssouf Fofana's Ivorian Elephants on the final matchday (2-0). This pivotal victory propelled Cameroon towards their first continental title, won in the final against Nigeria (3-1).

Four years later, ironically, the competition was already being held in Morocco. In the semi-finals, the Indomitable Lions faced the host country. Led by a decisive goal from Cyril Makanaky, the Cameroonians defeated Aziz Bouderballah and Mouhamed Timoumi's Atlas Lions and went on to their second African title by beating Nigeria (1-0).

In 1992, in Senegal, history repeated itself. Even though Cameroon didn't win the trophy that year, they once again dashed the hopes of the host country. In the quarter-finals, the Indomitable Lions eliminated the Lions of Teranga (1-0) at the Léopold Sédar Senghor Stadium in Dakar, plunging the entire nation into despair.

In 1998, in Burkina Faso, Cameroon made a strong statement right from the opening match. Alphonse Tchami scored the only goal of the game against the Stallions (1-0), spoiling the party for the Burkinabe public from the outset.

Two years later, in Nigeria, the golden generation of Samuel Eto'o, Rigobert Song, and Patrick Mboma gave Cameroon its third star. In the final, the Indomitable Lions held their own against the Super Eagles before prevailing on penalties (2-2, 4-3 on penalties), inflicting another blow on the host nation.

In 2002, in Mali, Cameroon confirmed its incredible mental strength. Before beating Senegal in the final, Winfried Schäfer's men eliminated Mahamadou Diarra's Malian Eagles in the semi-final (3-0), silencing the Stade du 26 Mars.

Five trophies won away from home, five symbolic victories against host nations: these statistics speak for themselves. Cameroon has built its reputation on exceptional mental strength and a unique ability to withstand the pressure of major African tournaments.

Just hours apart, this unusual situation between Cameroon and Morocco is bound to resonate with Atlas Lions supporters. When facing the host nation, Cameroon always seems to know how to turn hostility into motivation. It's a tradition the Indomitable Lions undoubtedly dream of continuing once again.