Morocco kicked off their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations journey in style, defeating Comoros 2-0 on Sunday night. Despite an early penalty scare, the Atlas Lions roared back to secure all three points at a buzzing Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
With 60,180 passionate fans behind them, the Atlas Lions stretched their unbeaten home streak to 19 games, fueling hopes of capturing their first continental crown since 1976.
The hosts had a chance to take an early lead in the 11th minute when Brahim Diaz was brought down in the box by Iyad Mohamed. However, Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor produced a fine save, using his left knee to deny Soufiane Rahimi from the spot.
Comoros held firm and disciplined, keeping Morocco at bay for much of the first half. Ten minutes into the second half, the deadlock broke as Diaz found space near the penalty spot and coolly finished Mazraoui’s low cross, igniting wild celebrations among the home supporters.
The match burst into life after the opener. Rafiki Saïd nearly pulled one back for Comoros, only to be thwarted by Yassine Bounou, while Pandor continued to shine with a sharp save from Mazraoui’s strike. With 15 minutes left, substitute Ayoub El Kaabi put the result beyond doubt with a breathtaking overhead kick.
Morocco now shifts focus to their next group clashes against Mali and Zambia, eyeing a top-two finish for automatic qualification or a potential lifeline as one of the best third-placed teams.
