The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations began with a flourish as host nation Morocco secured a 2-0 win over Comoros at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium on Sunday night. Despite a scoreless first half and a missed penalty, the Atlas Lions used their home advantage to overwhelm the visitors in the second period.
The hosts controlled the tempo from the opening whistle and were granted a golden opportunity to lead when Brahim Diaz was fouled in the penalty area. However, Soufiane Rahimi saw his low effort saved by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor. The frustration continued for the home side as a VAR review later dismissed a second penalty claim, leaving the match deadlocked at the interval despite Morocco maintaining over 70% of the possession.
The deadlock was finally broken ten minutes after the restart. Noussair Mazraoui delivered a sharp low cross into the box that Brahim Diaz clinicaly fired into the net, sending the capacity crowd into a frenzy. Comoros briefly threatened an equalizer through a point-blank effort, but Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou remained alert to preserve the lead.
The victory was solidified in the 74th minute through a moment of individual brilliance. Ayoub El Kaabi connected with a lofted cross to produce a stunning overhead kick that flew into the corner of the net. This spectacular goal ensured Morocco took all three points and continued their dominant historical record against Comoros.
