Morocco vs Comoros: CAN 2025 Kickoff – A Clash of Titans at Stade Moulay Abdellah

• CAN 2025: Morocco vs Comoros

The stage is set for an electrifying start to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) as Morocco, the tournament favorites, face off against underdogs Comoros at the iconic Stade Moulay Abdellah. With the roar of fans echoing under the stadium’s towering roof, this match promises drama, skill, and perhaps a few surprises. Dive into our breakdown of the teams, key players, and why this opener could set the tone for the entire tournament. --- ### Why Is Morocco the Clear Favorite? Morocco enters CAN 2025 riding high on their 2022 World Cup semifinal heroics. With a squad blending European-based stars like Achraf Hakimi (PSG) and Sofyan Amrabat (Manchester United) alongside local talents, their tactical flexibility under coach Walid Regragui makes them formidable. Their recent 5-0 thrashing of Zambia in a friendly only underscores their form. But don’t underestimate the Comoros. The Coelacanths, ranked 130th by FIFA, have defied odds before—remember their shock win over Ghana in 2021? Their gritty defense and counterattacking flair, led by striker Ben Nabouhane, could trouble Morocco’s backline. --- ### Stade Moulay Abdellah: A Cathedral of Football

*Source: AFP/Getty Images* The stadium, bathed in floodlights, is a symbol of Moroccan football pride. Built in 1983, its 65,000-seat capacity will be packed to the rafters. Fun fact: The pitch’s hybrid GRASS system was upgraded last year to meet UEFA Elite standards—proof of Morocco’s ambition to host bigger tournaments. --- ### Tactical Preview: What to Watch - Morocco’s Wing Play : Hakimi and Ziyech love overlapping runs. Comoros’ fullbacks must stay disciplined. - Set-Piece Threat : Comoros scored 40% of their CAN 2023 goals from corners. Morocco’s keeper Bono needs to command his box. - X-Factor : Comoros’ midfielder Youssouf M’Changama (free-kick specialist) could turn the game in a flash. --- ### Historical Context: David vs Goliath? Morocco has won all three previous meetings, including a 2-0 victory in 2023 WC qualifiers. But Comoros’ rise mirrors Iceland’s 2016 Euro fairytale. As their coach Amir Abdou said: *“We play with heart, not rankings.”* --- ### Fan Expectations and Cultural Buzz Rabat’s streets are draped in red and green. Local vendors report selling 300% more team jerseys than during CAN 2023. Meanwhile, Comorian fans in Marseille (home to 80,000 Comoros diaspora) have chartered flights to support their team. The match coincides with *Eid al-Adha*, adding festive fervor. --- ### Key Stats at a Glance | Metric | Morocco | Comoros | |-----------------|---------|---------| | FIFA Rank | 12 | 130 | | Avg. Goals (2025)| 2.8 | 1.1 | | Clean Sheets | 60% | 25% | *Data: CAF Official Website* --- ### FAQ: Your CAN 2025 Opener Questions Answered

CAN 2025: Morocco vs Comoros

What time is kickoff?

December 22, 2025, at 20:00 GMT (21:00 local time).

How can I watch the match?

Broadcast live on beIN Sports (MENA), SuperSport (Africa), and Viaplay (Europe).

Who’s the referee?

Janny Sikazwe (Zambia), infamous for his 2018 WC timekeeping blunder—let’s hope for smoother sailing!