Morocco into the quarter-finals, thanks to Díaz’s historic goal

Morocco’s rising star Brahim Diaz continued his scintillating form in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), scoring the decisive goal that propelled the hosts into the quarter-finals. The Real Madrid midfielder netted the only goal of the match against Tanzania on Sunday, ensuring Morocco’s progression in front of a jubilant home crowd in Rabat.

Diaz’s strike was not just match-winning; it was historic. With four goals in four matches, the 24-year-old has become the first Moroccan player in AFCON history to score in four consecutive games in a single tournament. In doing so, he surpassed the legendary Ahmed Faras, who had previously held the record with goals in three successive matches during the 1976 edition of the tournament.

Speaking after the match, Diaz emphasised the collective achievement over personal glory: “Scoring in every game has been fantastic, but what matters most is that we’ve reached the quarter-finals. That is the priority for me and the team.”

The decisive moment arrived in the 64th minute. Full-back Achraf Hakimi delivered a precise ball from the right flank, which Diaz expertly converted from a difficult angle, sending the ball into the back of the net. The goal not only secured Morocco’s victory but also elevated Diaz to the top of the Golden Boot standings, putting him in a strong position to claim the tournament’s top scorer award.

Morocco will now face Cameroon in the quarter-finals. The Indomitable Lions earned their spot by overcoming South Africa 2-1, setting the stage for a tantalising clash between two of Africa’s most formidable sides. Football fans across the continent are anticipating a fiercely contested encounter in the knockout stages.

Morocco’s Diaz Record at AFCON 2026

Morocco’s journey continues, and with Diaz in such outstanding form, the nation’s hopes for lifting the AFCON trophy are brighter than ever.