The Atlas Lions of Morocco began their AFCON journey with a commanding 2-0 win against Comoros at the Stade Prince Moulay Abdullah in Rabat on the tournament’s opening night.
Despite missing their star player Achraf Hakimi, who was sidelined due to an injury sustained while on club duty with PSG, Morocco dominated possession and maintained offensive pressure. However, they struggled to break down the resilient Comoros defense in the first half, thanks largely to goalkeeper Yannick Panor’s impressive performance, including a crucial penalty save against Soufiane Rahimi.
The deadlock was finally broken in the 55th minute when Real Madrid forward Brahim Diaz scored following a well-orchestrated move. Manchester United defender Noussair Mazraoui delivered a precise cross into the box, allowing Diaz to tap in the opener.
Olympiacos Piraeus forward Ayoub El Kaabi doubled Morocco’s lead in the 74th minute with a spectacular overhead kick, sealing a comprehensive 2-0 victory for the hosts and securing three valuable points.
This win extends Morocco’s record-breaking unbeaten streak to 19 consecutive games. However, the missed penalty continues a recent pattern, marking their fourth miss in the last six penalty attempts.
Morocco will next face Mali’s Eagles, while Comoros prepare to take on Zambia.
By: Andrews Addotey
