Rabat: Brahim Diaz and Ayoub El Kaabi netted crucial second-half goals as hosts Morocco began their Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a 2-0 victory over Comoros in the tournament’s opening match.

According to France24.com, Soufiane Rahimi had a penalty saved during a challenging first half for Morocco, but Diaz managed to score from inside the area just 10 minutes after the break at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium. Substitute El Kaabi then sealed the win with a notable overhead kick. This victory positions Morocco for challenging matches ahead in Group A against Mali and Zambia.

Morocco, currently ranked as Africa’s top team and 11th globally, extended their record to 19 consecutive wins. The match attracted a crowd of 60,180, including notable figures such as Moroccan Crown Prince Moulay Hassan and FIFA president Gianni Infantino.

Achraf Hakimi, Moroccos star player and captain, was preserved on the bench by coach Walid Regragui due to an ankle injury. Morocco initially seemed set for an easy win after being awarded a penalty in the 10th minute, but Rahimi’s attempt was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor.

Despite an injury to veteran center-back Romain Saiss, Morocco broke through Comoros’ defenses after halftime. Diaz, taking advantage of a pass from Manchester United’s Noussair Mazraoui, scored the first goal. El Kaabi followed with a spectacular overhead kick to double the lead.

Looking ahead, Morocco will face Mali on Friday, while Mali will play Zambia in Casablanca. Other upcoming matches include South Africa versus Angola in Marrakesh, and Egypt against Zimbabwe in Agadir. This edition of the Cup of Nations will conclude with the final in Rabat on January 18.