Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!
Hosts Morocco began their quest for a second Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title with a hard-fought 2–0 victory over Comoros in the tournament’s opening match on Sunday night in rainy Rabat.
Playing before a crowd of 60,180 fans at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, the Atlas Lions were made to work hard by a disciplined Comoros side that frustrated the hosts for long spells despite Morocco’s dominance in possession.
Morocco missed an early opportunity to take the lead in the 11th minute after Iyad Mohamed fouled Brahim Díaz in the penalty area. However, Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor saved Soufiane Rahimi’s spot-kick, blocking the effort with his left knee.
Also read: Garba Lawal Questions Super Eagles’ AFCON Chances, Urges Players to Show Character
The Indian Ocean islanders adopted a compact defensive approach and held out until 10 minutes into the second half when Díaz, left unmarked near the penalty spot, calmly swept home a low cross from Noussair Mazraoui to give Morocco the breakthrough.
The goal sparked life into the contest, with Comoros forward Rafiki Said forcing a sharp save from Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, while Pandor denied Mazraoui at the other end with a fine stop.
Morocco sealed the win in the 75th minute when substitute Ayoub El Kaabi scored a spectacular overhead kick, easing nerves among the home supporters and ensuring a winning start for coach Walid Regragui’s side.
The hosts achieved the result despite missing influential captain Achraf Hakimi, who started on the bench as he continues recovery from an ankle injury sustained while playing for Paris Saint-Germain in November. Morocco also suffered an early setback when centre-back Romain Saiss was forced off through injury.
The victory extended Morocco’s world-record run of consecutive international wins to 19 matches, though sterner tests lie ahead. The Atlas Lions will face Mali in their next Group A fixture on Friday.
Meanwhile, the AFCON action continues on Monday with three matches scheduled, including Zambia taking on West African opponents in Group A, while Egypt and South Africa open their Group B campaigns.