The 2025 hosts began their campaign in style thanks to two second half goals - capped off by an outrageous overhead kick.
Backed by 60,000 fans at the impressive Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, Morocco saw off Comoros 2-0 in Rabat to lay down an early marker in group A.
Strong favourites
The 1976 champions, who last reached an AFCON final back in 2004, are desperate to end the 20-year wait on their home turf. Their first test came against a Comoros side ranked 108th in the world.
Comoros - who are making just their second ever appearance at the tournament - were handed the most difficult of opening games. Facing a wave of red in Morocco's rainy capital, they opted for a back five with four in midfield, merely hoping to just stay in the game as long as possible.
Kept at bay
The 2022 World Cup semi-finalists made their attacking intentions clear from the off, winning a penalty on the 10-minute mark after Iyad Mohammed clumsily brought down Brahim Diaz. However, Sofiane Rahimi's penalty was kept out by the legs of Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor.
AFCON is underway in Morocco and the hosts had a golden opportunity to take an early lead against Comoros from the penalty spot.
— The Athletic | Football (@TheAthleticFC) December 21, 2025
Soufiane Rahimi stepped up, but his effort was saved by Yannick Pandor. pic.twitter.com/i6p5dkSqrs
The North Africans were limited in their chances for the remainder of the half against an organised defence, controlling possession but only creating half chances.
Diaz breakthrough
The breakthrough did come shortly after half time. Strong play by Manchester United full back Noussair Mazraoui allowed him to play the ball into the box, his pass met by the oncoming Real Madrid winger Brahim Diaz. The 26 year-old stroked the ball into the corner, sparking celebrations within the sea of red behind the goal.
Comoros did not give up, and almost took advantage of sloppy play from Nayef Aguerd. The Marseille defenders' hesitation allowed Rafiki Said to run down on goal, his shot was kept out by the legs of Morocco goalkeeper Bono following pressure from a swarm of defenders.
At the other end, Yannick Pandor was also called into action. Firstly, saving Mazraoui's low shot after a short free kick, before his quick reactions on the follow-up saw Jawad El Yamiq's effort tipped over the bar.
Wonder strike
With time running out, the points were sealed with a goal already worthy of winning goal of the tournament. A left-footed cross from full-back Anass Salah-Eddine was met by the acrobatics of Ayub El Kaabi. The Olympiakos striker's overhead kick from 12 yards out flew powerfully into the corner, causing startled reactions from both sets of players.
An incredible goal to make it 2-0 in the opener of AFCON between Morocco and Comoros.
— The Athletic | Football (@TheAthleticFC) December 21, 2025
Ayoub El Kaabi, take a bow ✨
📽️ @SABC_Sport pic.twitter.com/b8UPRekuPn
With a two-goal deficit, the game faded out with the points safe in the bag. The hosts will face tougher tests along the way, with Mali to play next again back in Rabat.
For Comoros, they will focus their attention on an upcoming clash with Zambia, in the knowledge they made the 11th ranked nation work for their victory tonight.
