Noussair Mazraoui: Man United star starts AFCON off with a bang

Manchester United have three players in action in the Africa Cup of Nations this winter.

Amad will represent the Ivory Coast, while Bryan Mbeumo will aim to deliver the trophy for Cameroon.

Noussair Mazraoui

Mazraoui will also represent his Moroccan side as they host the tournament.

The African started at right-back as Morocco hosted Comoros to kick off the tournament in Group A. They came away with a hard-fought 2-0 win to start the group in perfect style.

An assist

Mazraoui has had a bit of a stop-start season for Manchester United, failing to gain significant time as a starter.

Nonetheless, he has always been reliable when called upon, just like in his first season in England. The full-back is one of the most experienced and important players in his national set-up and he showed his class tonight.

After a tough first half, Mazraoui helped his side find the breakthrough after 54 minutes.

The Manchester United man controlled the ball well at the edge of the box and expertly spun round to pass the ball to Brahim Diaz, who gleefully passed in the opener.

The 28-year-old also completed two key passes in the match and was excellent on the ball, making 88% of his passes.

He also had 93 touches of the ball, demonstrating how important a role he plays for his side in both attack and defence.

Mazraoui did fail in his only dribble attempt but did come close to scoring with one shot on target.

Defensively solid

The Manchester United defender also made two of his three tackles and won four of his eight ground duels.

He also made one interception in the match.

The hosts will face off against Mali on Boxing Day night, looking to secure their spot in the knockout round.

Noussair Mazraoui stats vs Comoros

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