Diallo Shines as Côte d’Ivoire Advance to AFCON Quarter-finals

Kenya, 7 January 2026 - In a commanding performance at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Round of 16 on Tuesday night, Côte d’Ivoire secured a convincing 3-0 victory over Burkina Faso, booking their place in the quarterfinals and continuing their bid to defend the title they won on home soil last year. 

Manchester United winger Amad Diallo was the standout performer, opening the scoring in the 20th minute with a composed finish after skilfully breaking free inside the box. His early goal set the tone for the Elephants’ dominance and gave Ivory Coast the impetus to control much of the contest in Marrakech. 

Just 12 minutes later, Diallo turned provider — delivering an incisive assist for Yan Diomande, whose curling strike doubled the lead before halftime, effectively putting the match out of reach for Burkina Faso. 

Throughout the game, Diallo’s pace, movement and creativity troubled the Burkinabe defence, forcing opponents to adjust their defensive shape and creating space for his team-mates. His influence was evident in the build-up to both opening goals, underlining his importance to the Ivorian attack. 

In the closing stages, substitute Bazoumana Touré sealed the comprehensive win with a late goal in the 87th minute, capping off a polished team performance and sending the defending champions through to the last eight. 

Ivory Coast’s progression sets up a high-profile quarterfinal clash with Egypt, offering a compelling showdown between two African football heavyweights later this week.