Hosts Morocco opened their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign with a disciplined but hard-earned 2–0 victory over a stubborn Comoros side in a rain-soaked Group A opener in Rabat.
Despite entering the tournament as one of the favourites, the Atlas Lions were made to work for all three points, only securing the win late in the contest after a frustrating opening spell.
Early setback and missed opportunity
Morocco had an early chance to settle nerves when Brahim Díaz was brought down in the penalty area inside the opening 11 minutes. However, Soufiane Rahimi failed to capitalise, as Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor produced an excellent save with his left knee to deny the hosts from the spot.
The missed penalty emboldened Comoros, who adopted a compact defensive shape, congested the midfield, and disrupted Morocco’s passing rhythm. Their disciplined approach frustrated the home side throughout much of the first half, limiting clear-cut chances despite Morocco’s territorial dominance.
Díaz breaks the deadlock
The breakthrough finally arrived 10 minutes into the second half. Left unmarked near the penalty spot, Díaz calmly guided home a low cross from Noussair Mazraoui, sparking celebrations among the 60,180 fans at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.
The goal opened up the game, and Comoros briefly threatened a response through Rafiki Saïd, who was denied by goalkeeper Yassine Bounou. At the other end, Pandor continued his impressive performance, pushing away a powerful effort from Mazraoui to keep his side in contention.
El Kaabi seals victory in style
Substitute Ayoub El Kaabi put the result beyond doubt 15 minutes from time, scoring with a spectacular overhead kick to give Morocco breathing space and cap a confident cameo off the bench.
The hosts achieved the victory despite notable setbacks. Captain Achraf Hakimi remained unused as he continues his recovery from an ankle injury, while experienced defender Romain Saïss was forced off early with a knock.
Positive start, sterner tests ahead
The win extends Morocco’s world-record winning streak to 19 matches, but the performance highlighted areas for improvement as the tournament progresses. Walid Regragui’s side will face a tougher challenge in their next Group A fixture against Mali on Friday.
Elsewhere in the group, Mali are set to take on Zambia on Monday, while Egypt and South Africa begin their AFCON campaigns in Group B.
Morocco may have started with maximum points, but their narrow victory served as a reminder that no opponent at AFCON can be underestimated.
Source: Yen.com.gh
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