Morocco launched their bid for a first Africa Cup of Nations title since 1972 with a composed 2-0 victory over Comoros in their Group A opener on Sunday night.
Playing in front of a buoyant home crowd at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, the Atlas Lions dominated proceedings but were initially frustrated. They were handed a golden chance to take the lead in the 11th minute when Brahim DÃaz was fouled inside the penalty area, only for Soufiane Rahimi’s spot kick to be brilliantly saved by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor.
Despite sustained pressure and a flurry of chances, Morocco went into the break level, with Comoros holding firm in defence.
The breakthrough arrived 10 minutes after the restart, as DÃaz made amends by calmly finishing from close range following a precise assist from Noussair Mazraoui. The goal settled the hosts, who continued to press for a second.
That decisive moment came in spectacular fashion when Ayoub El Kaabi sealed the win with an acrobatic bicycle kick, sparking celebrations around the stadium and confirming a deserved opening-day victory.
The result lifts Morocco to the top of Group A with three points, while Comoros remain rooted at the bottom.
Head coach Walid Regragui and his side will return to the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium on Friday, December 26, to face Mali, as Comoros turn their attention to a must-win clash against Zambia at the Stade Mohammed V.
