MARRAKECH, Morocco: Winger Amad Diallo scored once and set up another as defending champions Ivory Coast continued their impressive Africa Cup of Nations title defence with a commanding 3-0 victory over Burkina Faso in the round of 16 in Marrakech on Tuesday.
Diallo’s creativity and pace proved decisive as the Ivorians dominated the contest, with Yan Diomande and Bazoumana Toure also finding the net for coach Emerse Fae’s side. Ivory Coast could have won by a wider margin but for a series of fine saves from Burkina Faso goalkeeper Herve Koffi.
The win sets up a heavyweight quarter-final clash against record seven-time champions Egypt in Agadir on Saturday, a repeat of the 2006 final which Egypt won on penalties after a goalless draw.
Diallo, 23, has been one of the tournament’s standout performers, taking his tally to three goals and an assist in Morocco. The Manchester United winger will return to club duty after the finals having played a key role in driving Ivory Coast’s confident march through the competition.
