Diallo stars as Ivory Coast reaches last eight
Amad Diallo grabbed a goal and an assist as Africa Cup of Nations holder Ivory Coast reached the quarter-finals of the competition with a 3-0 win over Burkina Faso.
Ivory Coast's progression to a last-eight tie with Egypt was sealed in stunning fashion, with substitute Bazoumana Toure running from his own box before scoring in the 87th minute.
Diallo was key to the Ivory Coast's quick start at Stade de Marrakech, following up his blazed free-kick attempt with a left-footed shot that narrowly missed the left-hand post.
But it was third time lucky for the Manchester United forward, who collected Evan Guessand's deflected pass before dinking a smart finish over Herve Koffi in the 20th minute.
Diallo was again involved to help his nation pull two goals clear 12 minutes later, this time teeing up Yan Diomande, who swept the ball home from inside the penalty area.
Burkina Faso improved after the interval, with a smart stop from Ivory Coast goalkeeper Yahia Fofana at his near post denying Dango Ouattara's prodded shot from close range.
But it was the Ivory Coast that would have the final say when Toure dispossessed Bertrand Traore on the edge of his own box before ending his fine run with a near-post finish.
