Player Spotlight: Amad Diallo and Achraf Hakimi

Today’s player spotlights shine a light on some of football’s most exciting talents. Here’s everything you need to know.

Amad Diallo

Supersub Amad steals the show with 90th-minute World Cup winner

Ivory Coast / Manchester United | Winger | Ivorian

Key stat: Scored the match-winning goal in the 90th minute on his first ever World Cup appearance

Born in Abidjan, Amad Diallo has risen through the ranks to become one of African football’s most exciting young talents.

He entered the match against Ecuador as a substitute in the 56th minute and changed the game completely, rewarding his country’s patience with a clinical finish.

The winner ended Ecuador’s remarkable 19-match unbeaten run and marked a statement arrival for Ivory Coast on the global stage.

“I just wanted to make a difference for my country. This goal means everything to me. — Amad Diallo”

— Amad Diallo

Achraf Hakimi

Hakimi breaks African record and inspires Morocco’s brave draw with Brazil

Morocco / Paris Saint-Germain | Right Back | Moroccan

Key stat: Made his 11th World Cup appearance, becoming Morocco’s most-capped player in World Cup history and equalling the all-time African record

Achraf Hakimi cemented his legendary status at the 2026 World Cup when his appearance against Brazil made him the most-capped Moroccan player in tournament history, surpassing former teammate Hakim Ziyech.

The Paris Saint-Germain full-back, who also equalled the African record for most World Cup appearances, put in a commanding display as Morocco held a star-studded Brazil to a 1-1 draw.

With 96 international caps and vast big-game experience, Hakimi is the heartbeat of Morocco’s World Cup campaign and Africa’s best chance of a deep run in the tournament.

“We showed we can compete with anyone. Morocco are here to make history again. — Achraf Hakimi”

— Achraf Hakimi

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