Cheima Moufdil
Hosts Morocco began their Africa Cup of Nations 2025 journey with a tense but ultimately convincing victory over Comoros in the tournament opener, played in heavy rain in Rabat.
The Atlas Lions had an early chance to settle nerves when Iyad Mohamed brought down Brahim Díaz in the box after just 11 minutes. However, Soufiane Rahimi’s penalty was brilliantly saved by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor, who used his knee to keep the scores level.
Comoros defended deep and frustrated the home side for much of the first half, but Morocco finally broke through 10 minutes after the restart. Left unmarked near the penalty spot, Díaz swept home Noussair Mazraoui’s low cross to ignite the 60,180-strong crowd at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.
The goal opened the contest, with Comoros forward Rafiki Saïd denied by Yassine Bounou at close range, while Pandor was again called into action to push away a powerful effort from Mazraoui.
With 15 minutes remaining, substitute Ayoub El Kaabi sealed the win in spectacular fashion, scoring with an acrobatic overhead kick that is already being tipped as a contender for goal of the tournament. The strike ensured Walid Regragui’s side delivered the victory expected of them on home soil.
Morocco achieved the win despite notable absences and setbacks. Captain Achraf Hakimi started on the bench as he continues to recover from an ankle injury, while centre-back Romain Saïss was forced off early through injury.
The three points extended Morocco’s world-record winning streak to 19 consecutive matches, but sterner challenges lie ahead, starting with a Group A clash against Mali on Friday.
Elsewhere, Group A continues with Zambia facing Mali, while Egypt and South Africa begin their campaigns in Group B.
For now, Morocco’s home fans will be relieved that their side avoided an opening-day upset, even if tougher tests are still to come as the Atlas Lions chase a first AFCON title since 1976.