Morocco secured a 2-0 win over Comoros in the AFCON 2025 opening match through second-half goals from Brahim Diaz and Ayoub El Kaabi after an early missed penalty.
Host nation Morocco launched their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a solid 2-0 victory over Comoros at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.
Despite an early scare when Soufiane Rahimi saw his 10th-minute penalty saved by Yannick Pandor, the Atlas Lions remained patient throughout a frustrating first half.
The hosts dominated possession but struggled to break down a resilient Comorian defense that relied on occasional counter-attacks to stay competitive.
The breakthrough finally arrived ten minutes into the second half when Brahim Diaz clinicaly finished a cross from Noussair Mazraoui.
Morocco effectively killed the game in the 74th minute as Ayoub El Kaabi met a low delivery from Anass Salah-Eddine with a first-time strike to double the lead.
Highlighting the pressure of the opening night, the report noted: “The breakthrough arrived ten minutes after the restart… the winger finished confidently with his right foot into the bottom corner.”
The win places Morocco at the top of Group A as they pursue their first continental title since 1976.
While Comoros showed glimpses of quality, they were ultimately outmatched by the hosts’ superior technical depth and home-field advantage.
Reflecting on the significance of the result, tournament organizers shared via social media: “First day. First match. First win for Morocco. #TotalEnergiesAFCON2025.”