RABAT: Tournament hosts Morocco launched their Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a controlled 2-0 victory over Comoros on Sunday night, thanks to second-half goals from Brahim Diaz and Ayoub El Kaabi in front of a packed home crowd.
Playing the opening match of the competition at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, the Atlas Lions dominated possession early but struggled to convert their chances in a frustrating first half. Their problems were compounded when Soufiane Rahimi failed to score from the penalty spot, seeing his effort blocked by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor in the 10th minute.
Despite Morocco’s superior quality and attacking intent, Comoros remained disciplined and organized, frustrating the hosts for much of the opening period. The visitors, ranked 108th in the world, defended deep and capitalized on Morocco’s missed opportunities to keep the score level at the break.
The breakthrough finally arrived 10 minutes into the second half. Manchester United defender Noussair Mazraoui collected the ball on the right side of the box and delivered a precise pass to Brahim Diaz, who calmly finished from close range to give Morocco a deserved lead.
That goal shifted the momentum decisively. Morocco began to find more space in advanced areas, while Comoros struggled to maintain their defensive structure. Substitute Ayoub El Kaabi then produced the highlight of the night, sealing the result with a spectacular overhead kick after meeting Anass Salah-Eddine’s cross from the left flank.
The victory extended Morocco’s remarkable winning streak to 19 matches, a world record, underlining their status as one of the tournament favorites. Ranked 11th globally, Morocco entered the competition as Africa’s highest-ranked national team and justified that standing with a composed performance.
The match was played in front of 60,180 spectators, with Crown Prince Moulay Hassan and FIFA president Gianni Infantino among the notable attendees. Morocco coach Walid Regragui opted to rest captain Achraf Hakimi, who watched the match from the bench as he continues to recover from an ankle injury sustained with Paris Saint-Germain.
Morocco did suffer a setback when experienced defender Romain Saiss was forced off early with an injury, though it did little to disrupt their overall control of the contest.
Comoros had a rare chance to respond when Rafiki Said broke through on goal, but his effort was denied, allowing Morocco to maintain their two-goal cushion comfortably until full time.
The Atlas Lions will next face Mali on Friday in what is expected to be a more demanding Group A encounter. Mali open their campaign against Zambia on Monday in Casablanca.
Elsewhere, South Africa take on Angola in Marrakesh, while Egypt, led by Mohamed Salah, begin their Group B campaign against Zimbabwe in Agadir. The Africa Cup of Nations will conclude with the final in Rabat on January 18, marking the first edition of the tournament to span two calendar years.
Read More: PTV Sports