Morocco overcame a tense start to beat Comoros 2-0 in the opening match of the Africa Cup of Nations at Rabat’s Complexe Sportif Prince Moulay Abdellah. Brahim Diaz opened the scoring in the 55th minute, followed by substitute Ayoub El Kaabi’s trademark bicycle kick in the 74th minute, securing the win for the hosts.
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Despite Morocco’s overwhelming ranking advantage, 97 places above Comoros, the highly fancied side struggled in the rain, missing an early penalty in the 11th minute when Soufiane Rahimi struck straight at goalkeeper Yannick Pandor. Morocco dominated possession throughout the first half but were unable to break the deadlock until Noussair Mazraoui kept the ball in play and set up Diaz for the opening goal.
El Kaabi’s dramatic goal came just ten minutes after entering the match, easing tensions and ensuring a solid scoreline. Comoros had a chance to equalize shortly after Diaz’s goal, but Rafiki Said’s shot was saved by Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.
Coach Walid Regragui acknowledged the challenge of the opening game, noting the team improved in the second half. Morocco extended their record of consecutive national team victories to 19, surpassing Spain’s previous record of 15 set in 2008-09.
The victory came with a concern as captain Romain Saiss limped off after just 18 minutes, leaving the field in tears following a recent return from ankle surgery. Morocco’s next opponents in Group A, Mali and Zambia, face off in Casablanca, while Group B sees Angola play South Africa and Egypt, led by Mohamed Salah, take on Zimbabwe in Agadir.
