Hosts Morocco kicked off the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in style with a determined 2–0 victory over Comoros on Sunday night at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, officially launching Africa’s biggest football spectacle.
After a tense first half, Real Madrid midfielder Brahim Díaz opened the scoring in the 55th minute, calmly finishing from close range to register the tournament’s first goal and ignite celebrations among the home supporters.
Morocco doubled their advantage in the 74th minute through Ayoub El Kaabi, whose stunning bicycle kick produced one of the standout goals of the competition so far and sent the stadium into frenzy.
Despite dominating possession early on, the Atlas Lions struggled to find a breakthrough before halftime. A missed penalty by Soufiane Rahimi — brilliantly saved by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor — summed up a frustrating opening period for the hosts, who created several chances without reward.
Comoros, featuring in only their second AFCON appearance, put in a disciplined defensive display and remained competitive for much of the contest. Pandor was particularly impressive, making a series of vital saves to keep his side in the game before Morocco’s quality eventually told in the second half.
The result continues a long-standing AFCON trend, as host nations have now remained unbeaten in their opening matches since Burkina Faso’s defeat in 1998.
Ranked 11th in the world and Africa’s highest-ranked team, Morocco are aiming to lift their first continental title since 1976.
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations will run until January 18, 2026, featuring 24 teams competing across six cities in Morocco. Following the opening fixture, Morocco sit top of Group A with three points. Mali and Zambia, the other teams in the group, are set to clash in the tournament’s second match.
