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Brahim Diaz Shines Again as Morocco's Playmaker Finds His Rhythm

The Real Madrid star celebrated a return to top form against Canada, while choosing to focus on Morocco's collective ambitions rather than looking back at past disappointments.

By the Atlas Lions Editorial Desk5 Jul 2026How we report

Brahim Diaz reminded the football world of his quality with a superb all-around display in Morocco's victory over Canada, earning widespread praise for his creativity, composure, and team-first mentality.

In an in-depth analysis, French football outlet Foot Mercato highlighted Diaz's influential performance, describing his display as further proof of his growing importance to Mohamed Ouahbi's evolving Morocco side.

A Fresh Start Under Mohamed Ouahbi

According to Foot Mercato, Diaz arrived at the 2026 FIFA World Cup determined to embrace a new chapter with the Atlas Lions.

The appointment of Mohamed Ouahbi marked the beginning of a fresh cycle for the Moroccan playmaker, allowing him to move forward with renewed confidence and fully focus on helping the national team achieve its ambitions.

From the opening match of the tournament, Ouahbi entrusted Diaz with a central creative role, giving him the freedom to orchestrate Morocco's attacks between the lines.

Creativity at the Heart of Morocco's Attack

Diaz immediately rewarded that confidence.

He provided an assist against Brazil before adding another in Morocco's victory over Scotland, consistently linking midfield and attack with intelligent movement and technical quality.

Against Canada, however, the Real Madrid star produced his most complete performance of the tournament.

Diaz registered two assists—setting up goals for Azzedine Ounahi and Soufiane Rahimi—to become the first African player to record four assists in a single FIFA World Cup edition.

Beyond the numbers, he also played a key role in Morocco's build-up play, helping the Atlas Lions control possession and dictate the tempo throughout the match.

Collective Football Above Individual Glory

One of the strongest themes highlighted by Foot Mercato was Diaz's commitment to Morocco's collective style.

Rather than forcing individual moments, the attacking midfielder consistently prioritized teamwork, intelligent combinations, and creating opportunities for his teammates.

His display against Canada reflected the identity Mohamed Ouahbi has worked to build—one based on movement, unity, and collective responsibility.

Ouahbi's Unwavering Confidence

Throughout the tournament, Mohamed Ouahbi has repeatedly expressed his belief in Diaz.

The Morocco coach has praised not only the playmaker's creativity but also his defensive work rate, professionalism, and willingness to contribute in every phase of the game.

Ouahbi has consistently emphasized that football is a collective effort, valuing Diaz's overall influence beyond goals and assists alone.

That confidence was rewarded with one of the midfielder's finest performances in a Morocco shirt.

Eyes Fixed on the Journey Ahead

With Morocco continuing its impressive World Cup campaign, Diaz appears to be growing stronger with every match.

His performance against Canada demonstrated both his technical brilliance and his commitment to the team's shared objectives.

As the knockout stage progresses, Morocco will once again look to one of its most gifted creators to help unlock defenses while remaining true to the collective spirit that has carried the Atlas Lions this far.

For Diaz, the focus is no longer on the past.

It is on helping Morocco write another unforgettable chapter on football's biggest stage.

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atlaslions.com is an independent digital media platform dedicated to Moroccan football and global diaspora culture. Run by Atlas Media Network LLC, this content is published under fair-use reporting guidelines for news, commentary, and educational purposes, and is not affiliated with FRMF or with FIFA.