The Host Roars in Its Debut: Morocco Imposes Its Superiority Over Comoros

A stunning bicycle kick goal by Ayoub El Kaabi sealed a match that had turned difficult for the hosts following a missed penalty and the injury of their captain.

The Complexe Sportif Moulay Abdellah in Rabat was the epicenter of African football today. On an afternoon charged with a sense of mystique, the Moroccan National Team took a firm first step in AFCON 2025 by defeating a resilient Comoros side. Having won the Arab Cup just a few weeks ago, Walid Regragui’s squad proved that their winning momentum remains intact, successfully asserting their technical dominance in a debut that, while demanding, ultimately turned red and green.

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Brahim Díaz and the Midfield Magic From the opening whistle, Morocco took full control of the match. With Brahim Díaz serving as the creative hub, the hosts suffocated Comoros with a high press that forced constant errors during their buildup. Although the scoreboard remained deadlock during the opening minutes thanks to a heroic performance by the Comorian goalkeeper, Morocco's dominance was absolute. The initial absence of Achraf Hakimi due to physical discomfort did not diminish the team's depth, as they found their best weapons for breaking down the visitors' defensive block in the verticality of Abde Ezzalzouli and the power of Youssef En-Nesyri.

Brahim Díaz and El Kaabi's Brilliance After a frustrating first half that ended goalless under a downpour, Morocco’s persistence finally paid off. Brahim Díaz, the Real Madrid star now playing for the 'Atlas Lions,' broke the deadlock in the second half following a brilliant individual run that finally beat Pandor.

However, the moment of the night arrived near the end. Ayoub El Kaabi, who had come off the bench, sealed the result with a spectacular bicycle kick following an assist from Salah-Eddine. The goal sparked scenes of madness in the stands and secured the first three points for the hosts in Group A.

With this result, Morocco banishes their opening-day demons and confirms that, despite the difficulties, they have the necessary resources to fight for the title on home soil.