AFCON: Ivory Coast cruise into quarter-finals with win over Burkina Faso

MARRAKECH: Defending champions Ivory Coast cruised into the quarter-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with a commanding 3-0 win over Burkina Faso here at Stade de Marrakech on Tuesday.

The victory saw the Ivorians continue their impressive form, with winger Amad Diallo playing a starring role, scoring once and providing an assist.

Diallo opened the scoring in the 20th minute with a brilliant solo effort, weaving through three defenders before a deflection helped him lift the ball over goalkeeper Hervé Koffi and into the net.

The 23-year-old then turned provider in the 32nd minute, delivering a low cross that found Yan Diomande, who coolly slotted the ball home from 18 yards.

Despite a strong response from Burkina Faso, which came close to pulling one back when Dango Ouattara hit the post, the Ivorians were dominant throughout.

They ended the match with 21 shots on goal, and in the 87th minute, Bazoumana Toure sealed the win, finishing confidently at the near post after a swift break down the left wing.

With three goals and an assist in the tournament so far, Diallo's stellar performance has made him one of the standout players.

Reflecting on their triumph, Diallo highlighted that their success comes from strong teamwork and mutual understanding.

"There’s this understanding on the field, this closeness between us, which makes our game easier," Diallo said.

"There is a real connection, a kind of little twist in the way we play. No one is trying to be the hero or shine individually."

Ivory Coast will now face Egypt in a heavyweight quarter-final clash on Saturday in Agadir, a repeat of the dramatic 2006 final, where Egypt triumphed on penalties.