Brahim Diaz shines, Morocco gets off to a perfect start at AFCON.
The Real Madrid star scored the winning goal and provided an assist, helping Morocco secure a 2-0 victory over Comoros in their opening match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
A promising start for the "Atlas Lions"
The Moroccan national team had a successful start at the 2025 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) with a convincing 2-0 victory over Comoros. In a match where Morocco dominated, Brahim Diaz emerged as the brightest star, serving as the main inspiration for his team's win.
Star moment
After a goalless first half despite dominating completely, Morocco needed a moment of genius to break the deadlock. And Brahim Diaz lived up to expectations. In the 55th minute, from a pass by Noussair Mazraoui, the Real Madrid midfielder produced a classy piece of skill inside the penalty area before unleashing a decisive right-footed shot into the bottom corner, giving the goalkeeper no chance to save it.
This goal not only relieved the psychological pressure on the entire team but also demonstrated the difference a true star can make. Statistics show that, although Diaz's expected goals (xG) was only 0.26, his expected goals from shots on target (xGOT) was as high as 0.87, proving his superior finishing quality.
Conductor in the playing style
With a score of 8.3, the highest in the match, Brahim Diaz was the driving force behind every Moroccan attack. Despite starting on the right wing, his coverage encompassed the entire pitch. He had 54 touches, an impressive 91% pass accuracy rate (31/34), including two decisive passes that created scoring opportunities for his teammates.
Diaz's technique and dribbling constantly tormented the Comoros defense. He had a 100% success rate on his dribbles and was fouled three times. One of those skillful dribbles even earned him a penalty in the 10th minute, although Soufiane Rahimi failed to convert it.
Comprehensive contribution
Not only was Brahim Diaz excellent in attack, but he also displayed a passionate fighting spirit. He actively dropped back to support the defense, recovered the ball twice, and did not hesitate to commit tactical fouls, most notably the yellow card in the 45+3 minute to stop an opponent's counter-attack.
Coming off the field in the 76th minute, Diaz brilliantly completed his task. This outstanding performance confirmed his status as one of the most exciting stars at this year's AFCON and the greatest hope of Moroccan fans on their journey to conquer the continental championship.
