Football: Morocco, the favorite, kicks off its AFCON campaign with a victory against Comoros

Morocco, initially hampered by pressure, found its rhythm thanks to an acrobatic goal from striker Ayoub El-Kaabi, as they launched their AFCON 2025 campaign with a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Comoros on Sunday.

The team, missing key player Achraf Hakimi due to an ankle injury, carries the dual responsibility of claiming a title that has eluded them for 50 years while also ensuring a flawless tournament organization ahead of co-hosting the 2030 World Cup with Spain and Portugal.

In a vibrant atmosphere and under pouring rain, following a ceremonial kickoff by Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan, the Atlas Lions faced a tough challenge against Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor before Brahim Diaz (55th minute) and El-Kaabi (74th minute) secured the win for their nation.

Moroccan fan Moustafa Faik expressed his mixed feelings, stating, "The result was good, but the performance was not convincing. They need to work a lot for the upcoming matches." Rachid, another fan, acknowledged the pressure of the opening match but remained optimistic about their future performance, saying, "I think they will gain momentum as the matches progress, and I see them reaching the final."

Earlier in the afternoon, a crowd of supporters braved the relentless rain outside the newly lit Moulay Abdellah Stadium, adorned in Morocco's red and green colors, with the venue expected to be sold out.

In front of television cameras, some fans chanted "Dima Maghreb" ("Long live Morocco") alongside numerous police vehicles, ambulances, and mounted police, all accompanied by drums and Afro music.

The honking of horns and the sound of drums echoed in the six host cities of the tournament, showcasing the relief among Moroccan supporters. However, coach Walid Regragui knows the journey is still long if they want to return to Moulay Abdellah Stadium on January 18 for the AFCON final.

"Any result other than winning the title will be seen as a failure," Regragui had asserted before the opening match.

Hakimi, a key player for the tournament, assured the nation of his health, confirming that he is "ready to play" after recovering from a serious injury. He was rested during this match to ensure he regains full fitness, and Morocco celebrated the win.

As they prepare to face strong competitors, including Senegal's Sadio Mané, Mohamed Salah's Egypt, and the defending champions, Ivory Coast, Morocco aims to solidify its position as the tournament favorite.

Regragui emphasized the importance of fan engagement, stating, "If they come to take selfies or eat snacks, they are not helping us." Despite the rain, the fans made their presence felt.

The coach isn't the only one facing high expectations; Moroccan Football Federation President Fouzi Lekjaa is also under pressure to deliver an impeccable organization. The country is set to welcome fans from dozens of countries, with over a million tickets already sold.

In 2030, Morocco will become the second African nation to host a World Cup, 20 years after South Africa, co-hosting with Spain and Portugal. To prepare, they are enhancing infrastructure in areas such as hotels, transport, and telecommunications, investing billions of euros.

The AFCON serves as a rehearsal for this grand event.