Morocco Stumble, Then Strike as AFCON Begins with a Statement
Hosts Tested in AFCON Opener
Africa Cup of Nations hosts Morocco were made to work harder than expected as they opened their tournament with a 2-0 victory over Comoros, overcoming early frustration to justify their status as competition favourites. In front of a packed Prince Moulay Abdallah Stadium, the Atlas Lions dominated possession and territory but found stubborn resistance before second-half quality made the difference.
Despite enjoying 66 percent of the ball, Morocco struggled to break down a disciplined Comoros side that defended deep and looked to counter through direct balls into the channels. The pressure told eventually, but not before nerves crept in among players, coaches and supporters alike.
Early Drama and Missed Opportunity
Morocco were handed an early chance to take control when Brahim Diaz was brought down in the box midway through the first half. However, Soufiane Rahimi failed to capitalise, seeing his poorly struck penalty saved by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor, who became an unlikely hero for the underdogs.
The miss appeared to heighten Morocco’s tension, with Walid Regragui animated on the touchline and several attacks breaking down amid rushed decision-making. Comoros even threatened on the break, with Rafiki Said briefly alarming the hosts before being flagged offside.
Diaz Breaks the Deadlock
The breakthrough finally arrived 10 minutes into the second half. Diaz, who finished qualifying as Morocco’s top scorer, was left unmarked inside the box to convert Noussair Mazraoui’s low cross, a goal that lifted both the team and the stadium.
Morocco continued to push for security, while Comoros nearly struck back when Said slipped through the defence only to be denied by Yassine Bounou at close range.
El Kaabi Seals It in Style
Substitute Ayoub El Kaabi removed any lingering doubt with a moment of brilliance 20 minutes from time. Meeting Anass Salah-Eddine’s lofted pass, El Kaabi spun acrobatically to unleash a spectacular overhead kick beyond Pandor, a goal worthy of any AFCON highlight reel.
The strike ensured a winning start for Morocco, who now turn their focus to a tougher Group A clash against Mali. Comoros, meanwhile, will regroup ahead of their meeting with Zambia as they look to bounce back.
