Morocco, hosting the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025, began their quest for a second continental title with a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Comoros in the tournament opener.

The match, played in rainy Rabat at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium before 68,700 fans, started nervously for the Atlas Lions. Morocco missed an early chance in the 11th minute when Iyad Mohamed brought down Brahim Diaz in the box. Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor denied Soufiane Rahimi’s subsequent penalty with a crucial left-knee save.

Comoros, under coach Stefano Cusin, adopted a defensive approach, frustrating Morocco despite the hosts dominating possession at 66%. The deadlock was broken 10 minutes into the second half when Brahim Diaz, unmarked near the penalty spot, converted a low cross from Noussair Mazraoui, sparking cheers across the stadium.

Comoros forward Rafiki Said was denied by Morocco’s goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, while Mazraoui saw a strong effort parried away by Pandor. Substitute Ayoub El Kaabi sealed the win with a spectacular overhead kick from Anass Salah-Eddine’s lofted ball, making it 2-0 with 15 minutes remaining. The goal, scored by a player netting 14 goals in 21 games this season for Olympiacos, is likely a contender for goal of the tournament.

Morocco extended their world record streak of consecutive victories to 19, despite missing influential captain Achraf Hakimi, who was fit only for the bench due to an ankle injury. Hakimi received his CAF African Footballer of the Year award before kick-off. Early in the match, Morocco also lost centre-back Romain Saiss to injury.

The Atlas Lions’ ambition remains high, building on their status as Africa’s top-ranked team and their historic 2022 FIFA World Cup semi-final run—the first for an African nation. Morocco has invested heavily in football infrastructure and stadiums, hosting the last two Women’s Africa Cup of Nations finals and set to co-host the 2030 World Cup. Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan participated in the ceremonial kick-off amid the pouring rain, highlighting the nation’s support for their team.

For coach Walid Regragui, the immediate task is to deliver Morocco’s first AFCON title since 1976, with the opener providing a strong platform for the remainder of the tournament.