Brahim Díaz’s Biggest Challenge With Morocco at AFCON 2025

A new number, a new role, and a new responsibility. In Morocco, he arrives as a leader — while in Madrid, the absence is already being felt.

From Real Madrid’s No. 21 To Morocco’s No. 10

Real Madrid’s No. 21 becomes Morocco’s No. 10. It is far more than a symbolic change. Brahim Díaz is set to face his first major tournament with the national team as its undisputed leader, embraced as an idol and expected to guide the Atlas Lions through the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

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His responsibility has grown even heavier following the injury to Achraf Hakimi, which removes one of Morocco’s structural pillars. For Walid Regragui, Brahim is now the attacking reference and creative engine of a team that believes it can win it all. For Xabi Alonso, meanwhile, his departure represents a significant loss during a congested stretch of the season.

CAF Africa Cup of Nations

Can Anyone Stop Morocco at AFCON 2025?

Numbers That Back His Status

Brahim Díaz’s impact with Morocco is backed by hard data. In 15 appearances for the national team, the record is striking: 14 wins and one draw, with eight goals and two assists. Influence, consistency, and authority are already there — but the defining triumph still awaits.

Brahim has already joined the squad after making his latest appearance for Real Madrid, coming on in the 83rd minute for Rodrygo. He nearly marked his farewell with a goal after a solo run, but his shot drifted wide. He leaves the club with one goal and two assists in 484 minutes, carrying a double mission: to shine at AFCON and to use the tournament as a platform to reclaim prominence back in Madrid.

Brahim Díaz and Achraf Hakimi celebrate a goal during a match with Morocco National Team.

Morocco’s Path And A Clearly Marked Goal

The journey begins immediately. Sunday, Matchday One, at 8:00 PM, against Comoros, at the Prince Moulay Stadium in Rabat. On home soil, Brahim will be the face of a project years in the making.

Group A also includes Mali (Friday 26, 9:00 PM) and Zambia (Monday 29, 8:00 PM). Regragui has had just one week to prepare, as Morocco delayed the start of camp until the final possible moment. The ambition is crystal clear: reach the final and chase the title on January 18 in Rabat.

Madrid’s Calculations And Brahim’s Dream

If Morocco — and Brahim Díaz — fulfill expectations, Real Madrid could be without the winger for up to seven matches, including fixtures in LaLiga, the Copa del Rey, and potentially the Spanish Super Cup. His availability for the Champions League clash against Monaco on January 20 would also be in serious doubt.

But calculations are secondary for the player. Brahim’s desire is unmistakable: to lead Morocco to their second Africa Cup of Nations title, a trophy they have not lifted since 1976. It is a national dream — and a personal challenge.

The lion is already in the Atlas. Now, it’s time to roar.