Tournament hosts Morocco made a confident start to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with a 2–0 victory over Comoros, as Ayoub El Kaabi produced a stunning overhead kick to seal the opening-night win.
The Atlas Lions dominated much of the contest and showed why they are considered one of the favourites to lift the trophy, despite never having won the competition before. Playing in front of a jubilant home crowd, Morocco combined patience with attacking flair to control proceedings from start to finish.
Real Madrid midfielder Brahim Díaz was central to Morocco’s attacking play. He won an early penalty, though Soufiane Rahimi saw his effort saved by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor. Díaz later made amends shortly after the break, calmly finishing from close range after a well-timed pass from right-back Noussair Mazraoui.
With the match heading toward a routine conclusion, Ayoub El Kaabi provided the moment of the night. The Olympiacos striker met a chipped through ball with a spectacular overhead kick, sending the ball into the net and igniting celebrations around the stadium. The goal is already being tipped as one of the best of the tournament.
El Kaabi’s strike added another chapter to his remarkable rise in football. Having left school at 15 to work as a carpenter, he has gone on to enjoy a successful club and international career, becoming one of Morocco’s most reliable goal scorers.
The victory gives Morocco a strong platform as they continue their group campaign. They face Mali next on Boxing Day before rounding off the group stage against Zambia on December 29.
With a solid performance and a moment of brilliance to remember, Morocco have laid down an early marker in their quest for continental glory.
