Recent reports have criticized the Spanish national team for not including Ibrahim Diaz in their roster, especially given his remarkable performances with the Moroccan team during the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations and previous tournaments. A leading sports outlet, AS, emphasized this issue in an article titled “Ibrahim Exposes Spain,” highlighting that Diaz’s accomplishments with Morocco—comprising 18 wins and 3 draws—validate Morocco’s decision to rely on him.
According to the article, Diaz’s choice to represent Morocco has allowed him to shine in a smaller environment rather than merely being another player in the broader Spanish context. His experience with various Spanish youth teams further supports this assertion, as the results speak for themselves.
Success with the Atlas Lions
The Spanish Football Federation and coach Luis de la Fuente failed to secure Diaz’s call-up to the senior team, unlike the Moroccan Football Federation and coach Walid Regragui, who successfully integrated him into their squad. The latter appears satisfied with their decision, considering the ongoing success.
Diaz stands out as a key player for the Moroccan national team during the Africa Cup of Nations, having scored five goals in six matches. Remarkably, since making his debut for Morocco in 2024, he has remained undefeated, contributing to an impressive record of 18 wins and 3 draws in 21 international matches, during which he netted a total of 13 goals.
The enthusiasm for Diaz is palpable in Morocco, where a stroll through the ancient city’s narrow market streets reveals him as the nation’s new idol. While shirts bearing the number of fellow player Achraf Hakimi remain popular, those sporting the number 10, representing the Real Madrid star, are rapidly gaining traction.
Both players have been entrusted with the weight of Morocco’s aspirations ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations final on Sunday against Senegal. The Moroccan team has a chance to secure their first continental title in 50 years.
Diaz has already ignited hope among fans. During the match against Nigeria, despite evident fatigue, Coach Regragui kept him on the field until the second half of extra time, hoping for a moment of brilliance. Although that moment did not arrive, the ensuing penalty shootout ultimately secured Morocco’s place in the final.
Diaz’s decision to represent Morocco was strategic; he recognized that given the current caliber of the African team, he would have the opportunity to win titles and emerge as a prominent figure in major tournaments. The Africa Cup of Nations could mark the beginning of many significant steps for him, with the World Cup looming in the summer, followed by additional competitions where he will be at the peak of his physical prowess.
