By Micah Jonah
January 18, 2026
Morocco coach, Walid Regragui has identified Brahim Diaz as the player most likely to shape the outcome of Sunday’s Africa Cup of Nations final, as the hosts chase their first continental title in 50 years.
Diaz leads the tournament scoring chart with five goals in six matches, his dribbling, movement and constant pressure on defenders that have marked him out as one of the standout performers of the competition.
Morocco face Senegal in Rabat, and the burden of expectation is firmly on the home side, whose only previous Afcon triumph came in 1976.
Regragui said Diaz has the mentality and desire to make a decisive impact, adding that the midfielder’s role in directing attacking play would be crucial in breaking down Senegal’s defence.
Diaz, a former Spain international with Moroccan heritage, switched allegiance two years ago after being convinced he could help Morocco compete for major titles and qualify for global tournaments.
Regragui said the decision had paid off, noting that Diaz believed in the project, had become a key figure in the team’s progress.
Morocco, ranked highest among African teams, showed signs of strain earlier in the tournament but delivered strong performances in the quarter final and semi final to reach the final.
The coach said managing emotions would be critical, stressing that playing at home should not translate into extra pressure, especially against a Senegal side experienced in high stakes matches.
He described the final as evenly balanced, giving a slight edge to Morocco because of home support, but warned that Senegal’s strength and confidence would make it a tight contest.
Regragui added that after decades of near misses, the current squad was determined not to let the opportunity slip, saying the team had developed a winning culture and was focused on finishing the job.
