Hosts Morocco began their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign in emphatic style on Saturday night, defeating Comoros 2–0 in their Group A opener to underline their credentials as title contenders.
Backed by a raucous home crowd at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, Rabat, the Atlas Lions dominated possession from the outset, patiently breaking down a disciplined Comoros defence.
Morocco had an early chance to take the lead in the 11th minute after Brahim Díaz was fouled in the box by Iyad Mohamed, but Soufiane Rahimi’s penalty was brilliantly saved by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor, briefly keeping the underdogs in the contest.
The miss did little to slow Morocco’s momentum. Coach Walid Regragui’s side controlled proceedings through midfield anchors Sofyan Amrabat and Azzedine Ounahi, pinning Comoros deep and limiting them to occasional counter-attacks.
The breakthrough came 10 minutes into the second half. With Achraf Hakimi rested due to an ankle injury, Noussair Mazraoui delivered a precise pass into the box, allowing Brahim Díaz to slot home a low finish for the opening goal.
Comoros pushed forward in search of an equaliser and came close late on when Ahmed Soilihi headed narrowly wide from a free kick. Morocco, however, remained composed and firmly in control.
The hosts sealed the win in the 74th minute as substitute Ayoub El Kaabi produced a moment of brilliance, scoring with a stunning overhead kick from Anass Salah-Eddine’s cross to make it 2–0.
The match was keenly contested, with several yellow cards shown, including to Amrabat and Jawad El Yamiq. Morocco were also forced into an early defensive change after captain Romain Saïss was withdrawn through injury in the first half.
Statistically, Morocco’s dominance was clear. They enjoyed close to 80 per cent possession and registered 13 shots on target, compared to Comoros’ three, despite the missed penalty.
The victory extended Morocco’s world-record winning streak to 19 matches and puts them in a strong position ahead of tougher Group A fixtures against Mali and Zambia.
The encounter was watched by 60,180 spectators, including Crown Prince Moulay Hassan and FIFA President Gianni Infantino. The tournament will conclude with the final in Rabat on January 18, 2026.
