Brahim Díaz assists in Morocco's 5-1 AFCON qualifying win

Brahim Díaz continued his fine form on international duty, providing an early assist as Morocco cruised to a 5-1 victory over Niger in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on Friday.

The Real Madrid playmaker needed just four minutes to make his mark in Casablanca, delivering a pinpoint cross from the right flank that found Yassir Zabiri at the far post. The striker made no mistake with his header, giving the Atlas Lions the perfect start to what would become a dominant display.

Brahim played the full 90 minutes for Morocco, registering one assist, two shots and two key passes in a comprehensive performance. The 25-year-old touched the ball 56 times throughout the match and completed 82 percent of his passes as Morocco secured their third consecutive victory in Group A qualifying.

Morocco cruise to comfortable victory

After Brahim's early contribution set the tone, fellow Madrid man Achraf Hakimi doubled Morocco's advantage in the 27th minute. Niger briefly threatened a comeback when Mohamed Abdouramane pulled one back, and the visitors were then awarded a penalty that could have brought them level. However, Yassine Bounou saved the spot-kick to preserve Morocco's cushion.

Hakimi restored the two-goal lead with a superb direct free-kick in first-half stoppage time, effectively killing off any hopes of a Niger fightback. Substitutes Youssef En-Nesyri and Ayoub Oufkir added further goals after the break to complete the rout and leave Morocco sitting pretty at the top of Group A with a perfect record of nine points from three matches.

Growing influence for club and country

The performance represents another valuable contribution from Brahim on international duty, adding to his growing collection of assists and goals for Morocco. The complete 90 minutes will also be welcome preparation as he looks to maintain his sharpness during the international break.

Morocco face Niger again on Tuesday, November 17, in Rabat as they look to extend their perfect qualifying campaign. For Brahim, it's another opportunity to build match fitness and rhythm before returning to Carlo Ancelotti's squad.

What it means for Real Madrid

Brahim getting a full 90 minutes is exactly what Madrid will want to see during this international break – match sharpness without injury worries. His assist and overall performance show he's maintaining the creative form that's made him such a valuable squad option this season, and the playing time should keep him ready to contribute immediately upon his return to Valdebebas.

With Morocco's next match on Tuesday, Ancelotti will be monitoring Brahim's workload carefully. Two full international matches in quick succession means fatigue management will be key, but the Atlas Lions' comfortable position in qualifying could see rotation in the second fixture. Either way, Madrid will be pleased to see their playmaker in good form and contributing for his country.

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