Brahim Diaz answers AFCON pain with renewed impact at Real Madrid | OneFootball

Setback appears to have strengthened the midfielder

Brahim Diaz answers AFCON pain with renewed impact at Real Madrid

Brahim Diaz is rebuilding his confidence at Real Madrid after missing crucial penalty in Morocco’s AFCON 2025 final loss to Senegal.

From AFCON heartbreak to Madrid redemption

Morocco international Brahim Diaz is working to overcome one of the most painful moments of his career, the missed penalty in AFCON 2025 final against Senegal.

The 26 year-old failed to convert stoppage-time penalty in Rabat opting for a Panenka that was saved before Morocco went on to lose 1-0.

After the match, Diaz admitted that his “spirit was hurting” and took full responsibility for the defeat offering public apology to Moroccan fans.

Despite the disappointment, Diaz returned to Spain with positives. He finished the tournament as top scorer becoming the only player to score in five consecutive matches and played a key role in leading Morocco to the final.

Mental strength on display at Real Madrid

Since returning to Real Madrid, Diaz has shown clear signs of mental recovery. Spanish newspaper AS reported that the midfielder has made strong step forward in his mindset and confidence during recent matches.

Reports believe the AFCON setback has made him mentally stronger and his performances appear to support that view.

Diaz has been influential in recent wins over Rayo Vallecano and Valencia playing direct role in key attacking moments.

Against Rayo Vallecano, Diaz came on early as replacement for the injured Jude Bellingham and provided assist for Vinicius Junior before helping create the move that led to Kylian Mbappe converting decisive penalty.

Growing role in Madrid’s attack

Diaz continued his impact against Valencia contributing another key assist as Real Madrid secured their seventh straight league win following earlier defeat to Celta Vigo.

While he started that match on the bench, Diaz later operated on the left wing even though he is often more comfortable on the right.

With Rodrygo unavailable and tactical changes pushing Federico Valverde into midfield, Diaz has found new space to influence games.

According to AS, there is growing belief that Diaz could also be effective playing behind Mbappe using the French striker’s movement to find space and earn more regular starts.

From super sub to starter?