Ivory Coast defend AFCON title with convincing win

In Marrakech, Ivory Coast reaffirmed their status as defending AFCON champions by crushing Burkina Faso 3-0 in a high-stakes Round of 16 clash. From the opening whistle, the Elephants pressed with tempo, cutting through Burkina Faso’s resistance and forcing mistakes. The decisive breakthrough arrived as Amad Diallo showed why he is rated among Africa’s most exciting attackers, scoring a well-timed goal and delivering an assist that helped seal the tie. The win underscored Ivory Coast’s depth, their speed in transition, and the clinical edge that characterizes a team bent on repeating their continental success. This result sent a message to the rest of the knockout bracket that their AFCON form is peaking at the perfect moment.

Diallo’s influence extended beyond the scoreboard. His movement pulled opponents out of shape, creating chances for teammates and keeping Burkina Faso under sustained pressure. Ivory Coast controlled the tempo, alternating quick counters with patient buildup as they sought to protect their lead and extend it. The atmosphere in Marrakech reflected the stakes of a knockout game, with the crowd sensing that a title bid was entering a crucial phase. For Ivory Coast fans, this performance reinforced the trajectory of Amad Diallo AFCON form as a driving force behind the team’s overarching strategy and aspiration to defend the crown. BBC Sport AFCON coverage highlights the importance of such rounds in shaping the title chase.