Amad Diallo propelled Côte d’Ivoire into the quarterfinals of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with a stellar performance against Burkina Faso, securing a 3-0 victory. The defending champions are now set to face Egypt in a highly anticipated clash.
Diallo, the Manchester United winger, was instrumental in the Elephants' dominant display, scoring the opening goal and assisting on another. His performance has not only kept Côte d’Ivoire's title defense alive but also established him as a key player for the team. The Ivorians showcased a blend of composure and clinical finishing, leaving Burkina Faso with a mountain to climb.
The match, held in Marrakesh, saw Côte d’Ivoire take control early. Diallo's early free-kick attempt went wide, but it was a sign of things to come. In the 20th minute, Diallo skillfully maneuvered past several defenders before dinking the ball over goalkeeper Hervé Koffi, giving Côte d’Ivoire a deserved lead.
Diallo then turned provider in the 32nd minute, setting up Yan Diomande who swept the ball home from inside the penalty area to double the advantage. Burkina Faso struggled to contain the Ivorian attack, with Diallo proving to be a constant threat.
Burkina Faso improved after the interval, but Côte d’Ivoire remained solid defensively. Goalkeeper Yahia Fofana made a crucial save to deny Dango Ouattara, maintaining the two-goal cushion. In the closing minutes, substitute Bazoumana Touré sealed the victory with a remarkable solo goal, running from his own box before firing home.
Diallo's goal was his third of the tournament, making him the first Ivorian player to score 3+ goals in a single edition since Didier Drogba in 2012. He also became the first Ivorian to both score a goal and deliver an assist in an AFCON knockout match since Yaya Toure in 2012.
Côte d’Ivoire's progression to the quarter-finals marks the furthest a defending champion has advanced in the tournament since Egypt in 2010. They will now travel to Agadir to face Egypt on Saturday for a place in the semi-finals.
The upcoming match against Egypt promises to be a thrilling encounter. Egypt, the record seven-time AFCON champions, will pose a stern test for the Elephants. The two teams have a rich history in the competition, with Egypt defeating Côte d'Ivoire in the 2006 final.
