Brahim Diaz’s consecutive goals lead Morocco to AFCON semifinals

PNN Staff Report

Brahim Diaz has been in excellent form at the Africa Cup of Nations. By scoring in the quarterfinal against Cameroon, he maintained his scoring streak, helping Real Madrid winger secure Morocco’s place in the semifinals with a 2-0 victory.

With this goal, Diaz became the first Moroccan player in AFCON history to score in five consecutive matches. Morocco reached the semifinals for the first time since 2004. In the Rabat-hosted match, Diaz scored in the 26th minute, putting Morocco ahead. In the 74th minute, midfielder Ismail Sairi doubled the lead. Morocco managed only three shots on target, with two resulting in goals.

Cameroon appealed for a penalty in the second half, which the referee denied. Despite a collision between Bryan Mbeumo and Morocco’s goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, the game continued. Morocco coach Walid Regragui was concerned when Diaz was forced to leave due to injury near the end. Morocco has not conceded any goals from open play in the tournament so far.

In another quarterfinal in Tangier, Senegal defeated Mali 1-0 to reach the semifinals. Immanuel Ndaye scored the lone goal after the goalkeeper’s mistake in the 27th minute. Mali’s captain Yves Bissouma received a red card during added time of the first half, reducing the team to 10 players. Tonight, the final quarterfinal will be between defending champions Ivory Coast and Egypt, with the winner set to face Senegal in the semifinals.