2025 AFCON hosts Morocco, secured a 2-0 victory over Comoros in the opening match of the tournament, but not before surviving a nervy start in rainy conditions at Rabat’s Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.
The Atlas Lions, heavily favored to win their second continental title, were initially frustrated by a resilient Comoros side. An early opportunity to take the lead was squandered in the 11th minute when Soufiane Rahimi’s penalty kick, awarded after Brahim Díaz was fouled, was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor.
The underdogs defended resolutely, keeping the hosts at bay until the 55th minute. The deadlock was finally broken when Díaz, left unmarked in the box, calmly finished a low cross from Noussair Mazraoui to send the crowd of over 60,000 into raptures.
The goal ignited the contest, with Comoros nearly equalizing shortly after as Rafiki Saïd was denied by Moroccan keeper Yassine Bounou. Mazraoui then forced another sharp save from Pandor at the other end.
Morocco sealed the three points with a spectacular goal 15 minutes from time. Substitute Ayoub El Kaabi connected with an acrobatic overhead kick to double the lead and ensure Walid Regragui’s side began their campaign with a win, albeit one that required patience to secure.
