AFCON host Morocco starts tournament with home victory

France 24Monday, December 22, 2025 at 11:24:19 AM
AFCON host Morocco starts tournament with home victory
  • Morocco commenced the 35th Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with a 2-0 victory over Comoros, highlighted by Ayoub El Kaabi's spectacular bicycle kick, which received royal approval from Crown Prince Moulay Hassan. The match showcased Morocco's strong performance despite a challenging game against the lower-ranked Comoros, who held out for a significant portion of the match.
  • This victory is crucial for Morocco as the host nation, reinforcing their status as one of the tournament favorites and boosting the morale of players and fans alike. The win sets a positive tone for their campaign in the tournament.
  • The opening match reflects broader themes in African football, where host nations often face immense pressure to perform well. Morocco's recent successes, including their advancement in the FIFA Arab Cup, highlight their growing prominence in regional football, while concerns about stadium conditions following recent floods raise questions about the infrastructure supporting such major events.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

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