Morocco Bets on Diaz to Spark World Cup Run Amidst Criticism

Moroccans are placing significant expectations on Real Madrid's Brahim Diaz to rediscover his brilliance and propel the Atlas Lions past the Dutch in the North American World Cup's Round of 32. Their hope is to replicate the success of the 2022 tournament.

Diaz, who was lauded as the best player and top scorer at the recent Africa Cup of Nations, has struggled to find the net, providing only two assists. His performance has been marred by technical errors, including excessive dribbling and poor decision-making regarding passes or shots. After earning admiration during the Africa Cup of Nations, he now faces criticism, even from former international player Younes Belhanda.

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We must not forget that Brahim was the top scorer and best player at the Africa Cup of Nations, and he plays for Real Madrid. He is a very big player and will give us a lot.

Belhanda described Diaz's play in the first three matches as "disappointing." He attributed Diaz's struggles to attempting to carry the team alone and trying to be the star without relying on teammates, which he believes has harmed the national team. Belhanda noted that Diaz sometimes slows down the game with unnecessary dribbling instead of making quicker passes or decisive plays.

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I feel very comfortable, and I know people love me. I always want to give my best for Morocco because without them, I wouldn't be here. I am very happy to represent my country.

Criticism intensified after a recent match against Haiti, where Diaz missed easy chances and contributed to the second goal by failing to challenge an opponent. However, coach Walid Regragui staunchly defended his player. "We must not forget that Brahim was the top scorer and best player at the Africa Cup of Nations, and he plays for Real Madrid. He is a very big player and will give us a lot," Regragui stated, expressing confidence that Diaz would improve with continued support.

Diaz himself expressed feeling at home and loved by the Moroccan people, emphasizing his desire to always give his best for the country. He stated in January, "I feel very comfortable, and I know people love me. I always want to give my best for Morocco because without them, I wouldn't be here. I am very happy to represent my country."

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I think he is not on the right track at all, and I wonder if he wants to be the savior of the national team or if he is just trying to polish and show his level?

Analysts suggest Diaz's inconsistent performance stems from immense pressure to perform and a desire to please the fans after missing a penalty in the Africa Cup of Nations final. The upcoming match against the Netherlands presents an opportunity for Diaz to silence his critics and make a significant impact for the Atlas Lions, where he is the most decorated player with 11 titles, including English, Spanish, and Italian league championships.

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In some moments, he could have passed faster or made the second pass or the decisive pass, but instead, he slows down the game and tries to dribble, and that's what bothers me.