Hosts Morocco kicked off their Africa Cup of Nations 2025 campaign with a tense but ultimately satisfying 2–0 victory over Comoros in the tournament’s opening match, played in rainy conditions in Rabat. Backed by a passionate home crowd, the Atlas Lions showed flashes of quality while also navigating moments of real discomfort against a disciplined opponent.
Morocco had the perfect opportunity to settle early nerves inside 11 minutes when Brahim Díaz was brought down in the penalty area. However, Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor produced a superb save, sticking out his left knee to deny Soufiane Rahimi from the spot. The miss gave belief to the Indian Ocean islanders, who retreated deep and frustrated the hosts for much of the first half.
The breakthrough finally arrived 10 minutes into the second period. Left completely unmarked near the penalty spot, Díaz made no mistake, sweeping home a low cross from Noussair Mazraoui. The goal sparked wild celebrations among the majority of the 60,180 fans inside the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.
From there, the game opened up. Comoros nearly found an equaliser when Rafiki Said was denied by the outstretched legs of goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, while at the other end Pandor continued his impressive performance by pushing away a powerful effort from Mazraoui.
With 15 minutes remaining, substitute Ayoub El Kaabi sealed the win in spectacular fashion, producing a stunning overhead kick to put the result beyond doubt. The goal ensured Walid Regragui’s side met pre-tournament expectations and began their quest for a second continental crown on a positive note.
The victory also extended Morocco’s world-record run of consecutive wins to 19, though tougher challenges lie ahead — starting with a Group A clash against Mali on Friday.
Attention now turns to Monday’s fixtures, with three matches on the schedule. Zambia face West African opposition in Group A’s second encounter, while heavyweights Egypt and South Africa begin their AFCON 2025 journeys in Group B.
