%20(1).png)
Africa Cup of Nations | December 21, 2025
Final Score: Morocco 2–0 Comoros
Goals:
Brahim Díaz (55’)
Ayoub El Kaabi (74’)
The Moroccan national team, known as the Atlas Lions, began their Africa Cup of
Nations (AFCON) campaign in impressive fashion with a deserved 2–0 win over
Comoros. Playing with confidence, control, and attacking flair, Morocco showed
why they are considered one of the strongest contenders for the continental title.
Despite a goalless first half, Morocco’s dominance was clear throughout the match.
Goals from Brahim Díaz and Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half finally turned
control into a convincing victory, giving Morocco a perfect start in Group play.
A Challenging Start Under Difficult Conditions
The match kicked off under heavy rain, which made the pitch slippery and affected
ball control for both teams. These conditions slowed the tempo early on and made
precise passing difficult, especially in the opening minutes.
However, Morocco adapted quickly. From the first whistle, they controlled
possession and pushed Comoros deep into their own half. At times, Morocco’s
possession reached over 80%, highlighting the clear difference in technical quality
and tactical organization between the two sides.
Comoros, aware of Morocco’s attacking strength, adopted a deep defensive block
with a 5-4-1 formation, focusing on compactness and counter-attacks.
First Half: Dominance Without Goals
Morocco’s pressure started early. The midfield trio of Sofyan Amrabat, Azzedine
Ounahi, and Ismael Saibari controlled the rhythm, while Brahim Díaz floated
between the lines, constantly creating problems for the Comorian defense.
Missed Penalty Drama
In the 10th minute, Morocco earned a penalty kick after Brahim Díaz was fouled
inside the box. It was a golden opportunity to take an early lead. However, Sofiane
Rahimi’s penalty was brilliantly saved by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor,
keeping the score level and briefly boosting Comoros’ confidence.
Despite the miss, Morocco did not lose focus. They continued to press, creating
several chances through long-range shots and quick combinations around the box.
Injury Concerns and VAR Decisions
The first half saw several interruptions, including an injury to captain Romain Saïss,
who eventually had to leave the pitch and was replaced by Jawad El Yamiq. This
briefly disrupted Morocco’s rhythm but did not affect their defensive stability.
Later in the half, Morocco appealed for a second penalty after a suspected handball
involving Brahim Díaz. After a VAR review, the referee waved play on, denying
Morocco another spot-kick.
Despite creating multiple chances and attempting 17 shots throughout the match,
Morocco went into halftime frustrated but composed.
Halftime Score:
Morocco 0–0 Comoros
Second Half: Quality Makes the Difference
Morocco returned for the second half with greater intensity and sharper movement
in the final third. The coaching staff clearly emphasized quicker ball circulation
and more aggressive positioning.
Brahim Díaz Breaks the Deadlock
In the 55th minute, Morocco finally found the breakthrough they deserved. Right-
back Noussair Mazraoui delivered a precise pass into the box, where Brahim Díaz
showed excellent composure to finish clinically past the goalkeeper.
The goal was a reward for Díaz’s outstanding performance and constant
involvement. It also released the pressure that had built up during the first half.
Score: Morocco 1–0 Comoros
Smart Substitutions Strengthen Morocco
Following the opening goal, Comoros attempted to push slightly higher up the
pitch. They even created a rare dangerous moment around the 60th minute, but
Yassine Bounou made a crucial save to protect Morocco’s lead.
Recognizing the need to maintain intensity, the Moroccan coach made several
attacking substitutions:
Ayoub El Kaabi replaced Sofiane Rahimi
Abdessamad Ezzalzouli came on for Azzedine Ounahi
Bilal El Khannouss added energy in midfield
These changes immediately paid off, adding pace, movement, and fresh attacking
ideas.
Ayoub El Kaabi Seals the Win in Style
In the 74th minute, Morocco doubled their lead with one of the most beautiful goals
of the match. After a well-worked move down the flank, Anass Salah-Eddine
delivered a perfect cross into the box.
Ayoub El Kaabi, timing his run perfectly, executed a spectacular bicycle kick,
sending the ball into the net and leaving the goalkeeper with no chance.
The goal showcased Morocco’s attacking depth and El Kaabi’s instinctive finishing
ability.
Score: Morocco 2–0 Comoros
Match Control Until the Final Whistle
After the second goal, Morocco managed the game with maturity. The midfield
slowed the tempo, possession was recycled efficiently, and the defense remained
organized.
Comoros struggled to create meaningful chances, finishing the match with only 4
total shots and 2 on target, compared to Morocco’s overwhelming attacking
numbers.
The match also featured several yellow cards, including bookings for Sofyan
Amrabat and Jawad El Yamiq, but there were no major disciplinary incidents.
The referee added stoppage time, but Morocco remained calm and professional,
seeing the game out comfortably.
Key Match Statistics
Possession: Morocco 70% | Comoros 30%
Expected Goals (xG): Morocco 1.97 | Comoros 0.34
Total Shots: Morocco 17 | Comoros 4
Shots on Target: Morocco 7 | Comoros 2
Total Passes: Morocco 649 | Comoros 281
Corners: Morocco 5 | Comoros 0
These numbers clearly reflect Morocco’s dominance across all areas of the pitch.
Tactical Analysis
Morocco’s 4-3-3 formation proved highly effective. The full-backs pushed high, the
midfield controlled transitions, and the front line constantly rotated positions.
Sofyan Amrabat provided defensive balance and leadership
Azzedine Ounahi contributed creativity and pressing
Brahim Díaz was the creative engine and deserved Man of the Match
Comoros’ 5-4-1 setup focused on survival rather than ambition. While they
defended bravely in the first half, the constant pressure eventually led to mistakes.
Man of the Match: Brahim Díaz
Brahim Díaz was the standout performer. He won a penalty, scored the opening
goal, and was involved in nearly every dangerous attack. His movement, vision,
and technical quality set the tone for Morocco’s performance.
Group Standings After Matchday One
Morocco – 3 points (+2)
Mali – 0 points
Zambia – 0 points
Comoros – 0 points (-2)
Morocco sits at the top of the group after the first round, sending a strong message
to their rivals.
What This Win Means for Morocco
This victory gives Morocco:
A perfect start to the tournament
Confidence and momentum
Proof of squad depth and tactical flexibility
While there is still room for improvement—especially in finishing—the overall
performance was highly encouraging.
If Morocco continues with this level of control and attacking quality, they will
remain serious contenders for the AFCON title.
Morocco’s 2–0 victory over Comoros was more than just three points. It was a
statement of intent. Despite missed chances and difficult conditions, the Atlas
Lions stayed patient, trusted their game plan, and delivered when it mattered
most.
With stars like Brahim Díaz, Ayoub El Kaabi, and a solid defensive backbone led by
Yassine Bounou, Morocco has all the tools needed to go deep in this tournament.
The journey has just begun—but the opening chapter was written in style.
