The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations burst into life on a grand and symbolic note as Morocco hosted the opening ceremony and first match at the iconic Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. Before a packed crowd of 60,180 spectators, Africa’s biggest football celebration began with colour, culture and royalty, setting the tone for a tournament rich in pride, unity and ambition.
The official kickoff of AFCON 2025 was initiated by the Crown Prince of Morocco, a powerful moment that underlined the nation’s deep-rooted commitment to football and continental unity. In his address, the FIFA President hailed Morocco as “a country of passion and peace,” while the CAF President warmly welcomed teams, fans and officials to Morocco, thanking the Moroccan Royal Family, the people of Morocco, and all of Africa for embracing the tournament.
At exactly 8:02 p.m., history was set in motion as host nation Morocco faced Comoros in the opening match of the competition, with experienced DR Congo referee Jean Ndala taking charge.
Morocco began on the front foot and earned an early opportunity in the 10th minute when they were awarded a penalty. However, Sofiane Rahimi’s effort was brilliantly saved by Comoros goalkeeper Ahmed Pandor, a moment that lifted the underdogs and briefly silenced the home crowd.
The hosts suffered an early setback in the 19th minute when captain Romain Saïss was forced off through injury and replaced by Jawad El Yamiq. Morocco continued to press, and late first-half drama followed in the 44th minute when VAR reviewed a possible penalty after a foul on Brahim Diaz. After review, referee Ndala ruled it out, judging that Rahimi had handled the ball in the build-up. Following five minutes of added time, the teams went into the break level at 0–0.
The breakthrough came in the 57th minute, and with it, history. Brahim Diaz calmly found the net to score the first goal of AFCON 2025, sending the Rabat crowd into raptures and giving Morocco a deserved lead.
Tactical changes followed in the 65th minute as Ayoub El Kaabi replaced Sofiane Rahimi and Abdessamad came on for Azzedine. Comoros responded two minutes later with a double substitution, introducing Saïd Bakari and Abdel Hakim.
The defining moment arrived in the 74th minute when Ayoub El Kaabi produced a stunning bicycle kick to double Morocco’s advantage, an early contender for goal of the tournament and a moment of pure brilliance that sealed the hosts’ dominance.
Further substitutions followed in the 75th minute, with Youssef En-Nesyri replacing Brahim Diaz and Bilal Khannous coming on for Ismael Saibari. Discipline became a factor late on as Jawad El Yamiq was booked in the 78th minute, Comoros reshuffled again in the 79th, and Sofiane Amrabat received a yellow card in the 90th minute.
After four minutes of additional time, the final whistle confirmed a convincing 2–0 victory for Morocco.
With a flawless opening ceremony, strong organization, and a commanding performance on the pitch, AFCON 2025 has begun in style. It was truly a royal night in Rabat, and Morocco’s statement win has set the rhythm for what promises to be a thrilling African football spectacle.
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