Hosts Morocco began their Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) 2025 journey with a tense but crucial victory over Comoros in the tournament’s opening match in a rain-soaked Rabat.
The Atlas Lions had an early chance to settle nerves when Brahim Diaz was fouled in the penalty area inside the opening 15 minutes. However, Soufiane Rahimi failed to convert from the spot as Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor brilliantly blocked the effort with his knee.
Comoros adopted a disciplined defensive approach and frustrated the home side for long spells, holding Morocco scoreless until the 55th minute. The breakthrough finally arrived when Diaz was left unmarked near the penalty spot and calmly finished from Noussair Mazraoui’s low cross.
The goal sparked celebrations among the majority of the 60,000 fans packed inside the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium and lifted the tempo of the match. Comoros nearly responded moments later, but goalkeeper Yassine Bounou denied Rafiki Said at close range, while Pandor remained busy at the other end, tipping away another effort from Mazraoui.
Morocco sealed the result with 15 minutes remaining when substitute Ayoub El Kaabi produced a spectacular overhead kick to make it 2–0 and ease growing tension among the home supporters.
The victory came despite setbacks for coach Walid Regragui, who was without captain Achraf Hakimi due to an ankle injury, while experienced defender Romain Saiss was forced off early in the match.
The win extended Morocco’s remarkable record to 19 consecutive victories, a world record, and placed them in a strong position heading into their next Group A clash against Mali on Friday.
Morocco entered the tournament under intense pressure as Africa’s top-ranked side following their historic run to the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup. With major investment in football infrastructure and passionate home support, expectations remain sky-high for the Atlas Lions to secure their first Afcon title since 1976.
While tougher tests lie ahead, the opening victory will come as a relief to Moroccan fans after their side successfully avoided an early upset against a determined Comoros team.