Brahim Diaz, the talented forward representing Morocco, emerged as the leading scorer at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), securing the prestigious Golden Boot after netting five goals. Despite Morocco hosting the tournament, they fell just short of claiming the title in the final showdown.

The Real Madrid star stood out as one of AFCON’s most prolific players, consistently finding the back of the net and propelling Morocco’s journey to the finals on their home turf. His inaugural AFCON appearance was nothing short of remarkable, as Diaz etched his name into the history books by becoming the first Moroccan to score in five consecutive tournament matches.

Historic scoring run

Diaz began his scoring spree with a goal in Morocco’s 2-0 triumph over Comoros and continued to leave his mark by scoring against Mali, Zambia, Tanzania, and Cameroon. His striking prowess was instrumental in advancing the Atlas Lions through both the group stages and the knockout phases.

One of the highlights of Diaz’s campaign was his contribution to Morocco’s semi-final victory over Nigeria’s Super Eagles, securing their place in the final against Senegal. Although the host nation did not clinch the championship, Diaz’s exceptional performance remains a significant highlight of the tournament.

His goals were central to the Atlas Lions’ progress through the group stage and knockout rounds, including their semi-final victory over Nigeria’s Super Eagles, which set up a final clash with Senegal.

Final ends in disappointment

Despite Morocco’s strong showing, the tournament ended in heartbreak in the final.

The hosts were beaten 1-0 by Senegal after extra time, with Diaz at the centre of a defining moment late in normal time.

Morocco were awarded a penalty in the closing seconds, but Diaz’s attempted panenka was saved by Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy.

Senegal capitalised in extra time to secure their second AFCON title, leaving Morocco to reflect on a missed opportunity.

Osimhen, Salah close behind

Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen and Egypt captain Mohamed Salah finished joint second on the scoring chart with four goals each.

Super Eagles winger Ademola Lookman ended the competition with three goals, alongside Amad Diallo, Youssef El Kaabi, Riyad Mahrez, Lassine Sinayoko and Senegal midfielder Pape Gueye.

Gueye’s extra-time strike in the final ultimately proved decisive in separating the two teams.

While the final result will be a painful memory for Diaz, his Golden Boot and record-setting scoring run stand out as a significant personal achievement and a key positive for Morocco’s AFCON 2025 campaign.