The Africa Cup of Nations 2025 began on Sunday, December 21st in Rabat, with host nation Morocco overcoming a determined Comoros side 2-0. The tournament will continue through January 18, 2026.
Morocco Begins CAN 2025 with Hard-Fought Victory
Morocco currently leads Group A and will face Mali on December 26th and Zambia on December 29th, as they pursue qualification for the round of sixteen.
Key Performances
Brahim Diaz played a pivotal role in securing the win for Morocco. He drew the penalty in the first half and scored the opening goal in the second. The Moroccan midfield, featuring Azzedine Ounahi, Sofyan Amrabat, and Neil El-Aynaoui, also proved instrumental.
Match Highlights
11th minute, 0-0: Iyad Mohamed conceded a penalty after a foul on Brahim Diaz. Soufiane Rahimi took the spot-kick, but Yannick Pandor saved it with a leg stop.
19th minute, 0-0: Morocco captain Romain Saïss, visibly emotional, was substituted due to a thigh injury, replaced by Jawad El-Yamiq.
55th minute, 1-0: Sofyan Amrabat delivered a precise cross to Noussair Mazraoui, who beat Ismaël Boura and crossed to the penalty spot, where Brahim Diaz scored with a composed finish.
74th minute, 2-0: Following fluid passing play, Anass Salah-Eddine provided a pinpoint cross for Ayoub El-Kaabi, who scored with a stunning overhead kick.
Morocco’s head coach, Walid Regragui, urged supporters to provide unwavering support, stating, “What we want is for the public to really support us. If they only come… to wait for halftime and eat the pastries, we have nothing to do with them.”
The match itself received a “C” rating, reflecting a slow start and moments of doubt before Brahim Diaz and Ayoub El-Kaabi ignited the crowd and improved the overall quality of play.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the opening match?
The final score was Morocco 2 – 0 Comoros.
Who scored the goals for Morocco?
Brahim Diaz scored the first goal, and Ayoub El-Kaabi scored the second goal for Morocco.
What are Morocco’s next two matches in the group stage?
Morocco will play Mali on December 26th and Zambia on December 29th.
What impact will this opening win have on Morocco’s confidence as they progress through the tournament?
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