Morocco battle Comoros as AFCON 2025 kicks off

Morocco open the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) under intense pressure as hosts and favourites, with expectations fuelled by recent global success and a formidable winning run.

The Atlas Lions open the tournament on Sunday against Comoros in Rabat, carrying the burden of a nation that views anything short of the title as failure.

Ranked 11th in the world and Africa’s top side in the FIFA standings, Morocco arrive on an 18-match winning streak and boast a squad shaped by their historic semi-final run at the 2022 World Cup.

Head coach Walid Regragui has been unequivocal, insisting the objective is to lift the trophy on home soil, even while acknowledging that the weight of expectation makes Morocco the hardest team to succeed.

Hakimi boost and group-stage focus

Achraf Hakimi’s return from injury strengthens Morocco’s case, although the Paris Saint-Germain full-back may be eased into the competition.

The African Footballer of the Year has stressed that personal milestones are secondary to team success as Morocco navigate Group A, which also includes Mali and Zambia.

Rivals circle as calendar shifts

Senegal, defending champions Ivory Coast, Egypt led by Mohamed Salah, and Nigeria spearheaded by Victor Osimhen all represent credible threats.

Senegal’s depth and experience, Egypt’s pedigree, and Nigeria’s motivation after World Cup qualification failure ensure Morocco face no margin for error.

The tournament’s December-to-January scheduling is even a tougher calendar pressures, with CAF already confirming a move to a four-year AFCON cycle from 2028 to align more closely with global competitions.

A statement tournament for Morocco

Beyond football, Morocco are using the competition to showcase modern infrastructure across multiple cities, positioning themselves strategically ahead of co-hosting the 2030 World Cup.

The AFCON opening games kicks off 8:00 PM WAT.