Morocco opened their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign with a gritty 2-0 victory over Comoros, although comfort was hard-earned on a rain-soaked night in Rabat.
Despite home advantage, the Atlas Lions were pushed deep into frustration by a stubborn Comoros side determined to spoil the party.
Early nerves were evident, especially after Soufiane Rahimi failed to convert an 11th-minute penalty. Yannick Pandor’s sharp save gave the visitors confidence as they retreated compactly and slowed Morocco’s tempo.
For long spells, possession did not translate into clarity. However, persistence eventually paid off shortly after the interval when Real Madrid man Brahim Diaz ghosted into space and finished calmly.
The breakthrough lifted the stadium and changed the rhythm instantly. Comoros suddenly showed ambition, and they forced saves from Yassine Bounou while Pandor denied Noussair Mazraoui at full stretch.
Relief arrived decisively when substitute Ayoub El Kaabi struck an acrobatic overhead kick to extend the lead. That moment of brilliance secured three valuable points for Walid Regragui’s side.
Morocco achieved the result without key figures at full strength. Captain Achraf Hakimi remained on the bench, while Romain Saiss departed early through injury.
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Early pressure, big expectations and a record that keeps growing
With the victory, hosts Morocco extended their remarkable winning streak to 19 matches.
Still, the performance hinted at challenges ahead. A tougher examination awaits against Mali, who promise far greater physical and tactical resistance.
Off the pitch, anticipation surrounded the opening ceremony. Heavy rain did little to dampen enthusiasm as Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan formally launched the tournament.
Morocco’s rise has been carefully constructed. World Cup history in 2022, modern stadiums, and sustained investment have reshaped expectations nationally. Pressure, therefore, is unavoidable for Regragui. He has already admitted that anything short of lifting the trophy will disappoint supporters.
The hosts have not won AFCON since 1976, a statistic never far from public discourse. As a result, every performance will be scrutinised beyond simple results.
Comoros deserve credit for their resilience and bravery, even if Morocco’s quality ultimately prevailed.
Tags: Morocco, AFCON 2025, Comoros, #AFCON2025, Brahim Diaz, Soufiane Rahimi, Yannick Pandor, Noussair Mazraoui, Yassine Bounou, Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan, Ayoub El Kaabi, Walid Regragui, Roman Saiss.
