December 22, (THEWILL) — Morocco opened their Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Comoros at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on Sunday night.
Second-half strikes from Brahim Díaz and Ayoub El Kaabi earned all three points for the tournament hosts.
The Atlas Lions controlled possession throughout but found clear opportunities scarce during the opening 45 minutes.
Comoros defended with discipline and organisation, frustrating Walid Regragui’s side despite territorial dominance.
Morocco’s best early chance ended in disappointment when Soufiane Rahimi saw his penalty saved by goalkeeper Yannick Pandor after Díaz had been brought down in the area.
The hosts also lost captain Romain Saïss to injury following a heavy collision.
Morocco’s breakthrough arrived 10 minutes into the second period when Noussair Mazraoui delivered a low cross from the left flank.
Díaz arrived at the back post to convert with a composed finish, finally rewarding the hosts’ patient approach.
The goal lifted the pressure and allowed Morocco to play with greater attacking intent.
El Kaabi provided the decisive moment in the 73rd minute with an acrobatic overhead kick from a Salah-Eddine delivery.
The spectacular finish left Pandor with no chance and effectively ended Comoros’ resistance.
Morocco managed the closing stages with composure, limiting their opponents to half-chances whilst controlling the tempo.
The victory places Morocco top of Group A ahead of the fixture between Mali and Zambia.
Comoros demonstrated defensive solidity throughout but finished without reward, still searching for their first major statement at the continental level.
Morocco face tougher tests ahead as it pursue success on home soil.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
