By Conor Hogan

West Ham’s El Hadji Malick Diouf has reached the final of the Africa Cup of Nations with his native Senegal.

The 20-year-old will be an AFCON finalist following his country’s 1-0 win over Egypt in their semi-final clash in Tanger. 

Former Liverpool winger Sadio Mané scored the winner on 78 minutes to send Senegal into the final of the tournament, and the Hammers full-back played the full game, impressing those watching.

Diouf had an excellent performance in the game. In a crucial encounter against Mohammed Salah, the West Ham left back wasn’t dribbled past once. 

Additonally, he made 12 passes into the final third, displaying the attacking threat that he has become known for in claret and blue.

Diouf experienced a tough start to his AFCON campaign. He wasn’t included in the squad for his country’s opening game against Botswana. He was then an unused substitute against Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s DR Congo, who have since bowed out of the tournament.

West Ham fans began to grow frustrated at this fact, as the Irons have sufferred in Diouf’s absence, failing to win a single league game since his departure for the tournament.

However, Diouf has started to get minutes in recent games and has impressed in his performances. In fact, Senegal haven’t conceded at the tournament while the Hammer has been on the pitch.

Senegal face hosts Morocco in the AFCON final on Sunday and Diouf will be hoping to feature in the biggest game of his young career. 

Hopefully the Irons No. 12 will be able to showcase his talent to help his country win their second ever AFCON title. In a season full of so many disappointments, Diouf may have something to celebrate if things go his way on Sunday.

Let’s hope he comes back in a great mood and brings back a winning mentality to the Hammers dressing room.