The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations kicks off with a high-profile Group A clash as host nation Morocco vs Comoros on December 21, 2025, at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. Morocco, Africa’s top-ranked side (FIFA #11) and tournament favorites, launch their bid for a second AFCON title (last in 1976) after an unbeaten qualifying campaign (6 wins, 26 goals scored, 2 conceded).
Walid Regragui’s Atlas Lions boast stars like Brahim Díaz and Youssef En-Nesyri, but Achraf Hakimi (ankle) is unlikely to start, with Noussair Mazraoui expected at right-back.
Comoros, in just their second AFCON appearance after reaching the Round of 16 in 2021, topped their qualifying group ahead of teams like Tunisia.
They arrive with a clean bill of health, counting on Myziane Maolida’s flair and Youssouf M’Changama’s experience to lead the way.
Morocco’s soccer team is riding a 17-game unbeaten streak and has qualified for the FIFA World Cup 2026. With Comoros known for pulling off surprises, like their 2021 win over Ghana, this opener is bound to set the tone for the tournament being held across Morocco.
Morocco vs Comoros – Date, Time, Predictions, and More
This AFCON 2025 curtain-raiser pits Morocco’s possession dominance against Comoros’ organized counters in Group A. Kickoff: Sunday, December 21, 2025, at 7:00 PM GMT (2:00 PM ET / 11:00 AM PT) at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, Rabat.
Morocco is likely to dominate possession, using quick passes and width to try to unlock the Comoros defense.
Match info
| Match | Morocco vs Comoros — AFCON 2025 Group A |
|---|---|
| Date | Sunday, December 21, 2025 |
| Kick-off (local / GMT) | 20:00 local / 19:00 GMT |
| Venue | Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, Rabat |
| Competition | CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2025 — Group A |
| All competitions Form | Morocco: W W W W W W Comoros: L W L L W W |
Team News
Morocco
As hosts and one of Africa’s highest-ranked teams, Morocco arrives with a largely available squad and will likely field a strong team.
Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou is expected to start, and the backline will include experienced internationals. Coach Walid Regragui is expected to set up a 4-3-3 to control midfield and use wide attackers.
Comoros
Comoros typically set up compactly, defend in numbers, and rely on quick counters and set pieces.
Their squad lacks the star power of Morocco but is tactically disciplined; they will aim to frustrate the hosts and hit on transitions. Monitor any late availability notes from their federation before kickoff.
Morocco vs Comoros Possible Starting XIs
- Morocco (likely — 4-3-3): Bounou; Mazraoui, El Yamiq / Saïss, Noussair Mazraoui / Romain Saïss (depending on selection), Nayef Aguerd (if selected); Sofyan Amrabat, Azzedine Ounahi, Hakim Ziyech / Sofiane Boufal; Youssef En-Nesyri, Ayoub El Kaabi (or other forward options)
- Comoros (likely — 4-5-1 / 4-4-1-1): Anzimati-Aboudou; B. Youssouf, M’Dahoma, Soilihi, Toibibou, Boura; M’Changama, Z. Youssouf, Bourhane; Said, Selemani
Head-to-Head
Morocco have the clear historical edge: multiple wins, no losses against Comoros in competitive meetings. Comoros have never beaten Morocco. Expect Morocco to hold a considerable advantage on paper.
| Date | Competition | Result | Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 16, 2018 | AFCON Qualifier | Comoros 2-2 Morocco | 2-2 |
| Oct 13, 2018 | AFCON Qualifier | Morocco 1-0 Comoros | 1-0 |
| Other | Friendlies/Qualifiers | Morocco wins/draws | Various |
Brief tactical notes & prediction
- Tactics: Morocco should dominate possession, press high in phases, and aim to create overloads down the wings. Comoros will set up deep, look to block central channels, and try to strike on counters or set pieces.
- What to watch: Morocco’s ability to convert chances from wide play and second balls; Comoros’s discipline in midfield and speed on transitions.
Match Prediction
Morocco’s skill and home support outshine Comoros’ organization in the AFCON opener, cruising to victory through dominant possession and set-piece strength. The Coelacanths held firm early but eventually faded.
- Predicted score: Morocco 3-0 Comoros. Morocco’s clean sheet value.
Where to watch Morocco vs Comoros
- UK / Europe: Check CAF / local sports broadcasters (Channel listings vary by country).
- USA: beIN Sports commonly holds African football rights — check local providers and streaming partners.
- Global: CAF/AFCON official broadcast lists and local broadcasters — confirm via CAF’s match centre.