Morocco Begin AFCON 2025 With Victory Over Comoros
Hosts Morocco began their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 journey with a solid 2-0 win against Comoros in the tournament opener. The match was played at a packed Prince Moulay Abdallah Stadium in Rabat, where fans expected a strong start from the Atlas Lions.
Goals from Brahim Diaz and Ayoub El Kaabi sealed the victory and gave Morocco the perfect opening to their AFCON campaign.
First Half: Morocco Dominate but Miss Chances
Morocco controlled the match from the first minute. They enjoyed most of the possession and pushed Comoros deep into their own half. However, breaking down the visitors was not easy.
Early in the match, Morocco had a great chance to score when Soufiane Rahimi won a penalty. Unfortunately for the hosts, Rahimi’s spot kick was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor, who had an excellent game.
Despite the pressure, the score remained 0-0 at halftime, and some frustration started to show among the Moroccan players and fans.
Brahim Diaz Breaks the Deadlock
The breakthrough finally came in the 55th minute.
After a smart move down the right side, Noussair Mazraoui sent a low cross into the box. Brahim Diaz, unmarked and calm, finished from close range to give Morocco a 1-0 lead.
The goal lifted the mood inside the stadium and settled Morocco’s nerves.
Ayoub El Kaabi Scores Stunning Overhead Kick
Morocco continued to attack, but Comoros did not give up easily. They even had a few dangerous counterattacks that tested goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.
In the 76th minute, substitute Ayoub El Kaabi ended the contest in style. He met a high ball from Anass Salah-Eddine and produced a beautiful overhead kick, sending the crowd into celebration and making it 2-0.
It was one of the best goals of the tournament so far.
Key Performances for Morocco
- Brahim Diaz: Calm, sharp, and decisive with the opening goal
- Noussair Mazraoui: Strong performance at right-back with an assist
- Ayoub El Kaabi: Impact substitute with a stunning goal
- Yassine Bounou: Important saves to keep a clean sheet
Captain Achraf Hakimi did not start due to injury recovery, but Morocco still looked well organized and confident.
What’s Next for Morocco and Comoros?
Morocco now turn their focus to their next Group A match against Mali, which will be played on Boxing Day in Rabat. A win there would put them in a strong position to reach the knockout stage.
Comoros will look to bounce back when they face Zambia in Casablanca, hoping to pick up their first points of the tournament.
Final Thoughts
The Morocco vs Comoros AFCON opener showed why Morocco are one of the favorites to win AFCON 2025. While it was not an easy match, the hosts stayed patient, controlled the game, and delivered quality when it mattered most.
With goals, confidence, and home support on their side, Morocco’s AFCON journey has started on the right path.
