Tournament hosts Morocco kicked off the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with a hard-fought 2-0 victory over a resilient Comoros side in the opening match at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium on December 21, 2025.
Despite dominating possession and creating numerous chances, the Atlas Lions were frustrated in a goalless first half, highlighted by a missed penalty from Soufiane Rahimi, superbly saved by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor. Morocco also suffered an early blow when captain Romain Saïss was forced off with injury.
The breakthrough came in the 55th minute when Real Madrid's Brahim DÃaz side-footed home from close range after excellent work from Noussair Mazraoui. Substitute Ayoub El Kaabi then sealed the win with a spectacular overhead kick in the 74th minute, a moment of brilliance that lit up the rain-soaked evening and is already a contender for goal of the tournament.
Comoros, appearing in only their second AFCON finals, defended stoutly and created occasional threats on the counter, but ultimately couldn't breach Yassine Bounou's goal. The result extends Morocco's world-record winning streak to 19 matches.
"This was a difficult opening game, but we improved in the second half," said Morocco coach Walid Regragui. Comoros coach Stefano Cusin praised his team's effort against the continent's top-ranked side.
Morocco top Group A and next face Mali on December 26 in Rabat, while Comoros take on Zambia on the same day in Casablanca.
The 35th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations continues with matches across six Moroccan cities until the final on January 18, 2026.
Entertainment Factory!
No comments
Post a Comment