By Francis Onyach - Reporter
Kenya, December 22 2025 - Hosts Morocco began their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign in fine style, defeating Comoros 2–0 in the tournament’s opening match in Rabat on Sunday. The victory set the tone for their title ambitions on home soil and marked a confident start to their Group A schedule.
After a goalless first half in which Morocco dominated possession and even had a penalty saved by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor, the Atlas Lions finally broke through after the break.
The breakthrough came in the 55th minute when Brahim Díaz put Morocco ahead. The Real Madrid forward calmly finished from close range, converting a cut-back from Noussair Mazraoui to give the hosts a deserved lead after repeatedly testing the Comorian defence.
Morocco then wrapped up the victory in the 74th minute with a moment of individual brilliance. Ayoub El Kaabi, introduced as a substitute, delivered a spectacular overhead bicycle kick that left fans and commentators in awe and secured the three points for the hosts.
More from Kenya
The win extends Morocco’s remarkable unbeaten run, having continued their world-record streak of consecutive victories to 19 matches. Despite weather conditions and early frustration, including the missed penalty, the home side showed resilience and quality when it mattered most.
Comoros, competing in only their second AFCON finals, offered spirited resistance throughout the first half and kept the game competitive, but ultimately could not withstand Morocco’s firepower in the second half.
The victory puts Morocco in a strong position in Group A, where they will next face Mali as they look to build momentum toward the knockout stages. Comoros will regroup as they prepare for their upcoming matches, aiming to bounce back after a challenging opening fixture.
