Morocco kicked off their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign in style, defeating Comoros 2-0 in the tournament opener. Goals from Brahim Diaz and Ayoub El Kaabi ensured the hosts claimed an early three points, sending a strong message to their group rivals.

The Atlas Lions faced an early scare when Soufiane Rahimi’s penalty was brilliantly saved by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor after Brahim Diaz was fouled by Iyad Mohamed. "Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor spared Mohamed’s blushes by saving Soufiane Rahimi’s penalty," highlighting the dramatic start to the match.

Despite the early setback, Morocco maintained pressure, and just nine minutes after the break, Diaz finally broke the deadlock. Receiving a precise pass from Noussair Mazraoui, Diaz fired a powerful shot past Pandor from close range to give the hosts the lead.

The game was ultimately settled in spectacular fashion when substitute Ayoub El Kaabi scored a stunning bicycle kick in the 74th minute, leaving fans and pundits in awe. “A scintillating second-half performance helped Morocco extend their unbeaten home record to nine matches ahead of their second test of the 2025 AFCON tournament,” underlining the team’s dominance on home soil.

Morocco’s start continues a trend of host nations performing strongly in AFCON openers, marking the fourth consecutive edition where the hosts began with a win. The victory also extends Morocco’s impressive record in group-stage matches, having won 10 of their last 12.

Comoros, making only their second appearance in the competition, showed determination and resilience despite the defeat. The team will hope for a better result in their next match against Zambia, while Morocco prepares to face Mali in a crucial group-stage clash.

With a combination of technical skill, tactical discipline, and flair, Morocco has set the tone for what could be a memorable AFCON campaign. Fans can expect more thrilling performances from the Atlas Lions as the tournament progresses.