Doha, Qatar – Morocco launched their FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025 campaign with a decisive 3-1 victory over Comoros at Khalifa International Stadium on Tuesday. The Atlas Lions, considered strong contenders for the title, demonstrated their attacking prowess early in the match, securing a comfortable lead within the first half. Karim El Berkaoui’s goal in added time solidified the win for Morocco, marking a positive start to their Group B schedule.
Soufiane Bouftini opened the scoring in the 5th minute with a powerful header, followed quickly by a deflected shot from Tarik Tissoudali in the 11th minute. Comoros, participating in the Arab Cup for the first time, managed to pull one back through an own goal by Mohamed Boulacsout in the 56th minute, but were unable to mount a significant comeback. The match showcased the difference in experience between the two teams.
Morocco’s Strong Start in the FIFA Arab Cup
This win positions Morocco favorably in Group B, alongside Oman and Saudi Arabia. The team’s dominant first-half performance suggests they are prepared to challenge for the championship. Coach Tarik Sektioui expressed satisfaction with the result, acknowledging the difficulty of the opening match against a determined Comoros side.
According to Sektioui, the team focused on maintaining their lead in the second half and capitalizing on counter-attacks. He also voiced his belief that a clear penalty kick was wrongly denied by the referee after a VAR review. The incident, while not changing the outcome, highlighted the competitive nature of the tournament.
Comoros’ Tournament Debut
Despite the loss, Comoros demonstrated resilience, particularly in their second-half efforts. Having recently achieved qualification through a play-off victory against Yemen, the team is gaining valuable experience on the international stage. Their participation in the Arab Cup represents a significant step forward for football development in the island nation.
Comoros coach Hamada Jambay attributed the defeat to early mistakes that allowed Morocco to build a substantial lead. He expressed hope for an improved performance in their upcoming match against Saudi Arabia. Jambay emphasized the need to address the defensive vulnerabilities exposed during the first half.
The Arab Cup serves as both a regional championship and a crucial preparation tournament for Qatar, the host nation of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. It allows participating teams to test their strategies and players in a competitive environment similar to that of a World Cup. The tournament also provides an opportunity to assess stadium readiness and logistical arrangements.
The Moroccan national team, known for their recent success in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, are hoping to translate that form into the Arab Cup. Their squad features a blend of experienced players and emerging talents, making them a formidable opponent. The team’s performance will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.
Karim El Berkaoui’s goal was a particularly noteworthy moment, showcasing his ability to capitalize on opportunities in the attacking third. The Atlas Lions’ overall attacking display was impressive, demonstrating their ability to create and convert scoring chances. This offensive firepower will be key to their success throughout the tournament.
Morocco will next face Oman on Friday at Education City Stadium. This match will provide another opportunity for them to fine-tune their tactics and build momentum. The outcome of this game could significantly impact their chances of advancing to the knockout stages. Comoros will simultaneously play Saudi Arabia at Al Bayt Stadium, seeking to rebound from their opening defeat.
The tournament continues with several other exciting matchups scheduled throughout the week. The performance of teams like Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt will also be closely monitored as they vie for the title. The next few days will be crucial in determining the contenders for the later stages of the football competition.
Looking ahead, the focus will be on how teams adapt their strategies after the first round of matches. Injuries and suspensions could also play a role in shaping the tournament landscape. The Arab Cup promises to be a thrilling competition, offering a glimpse into the growing strength of football in the region.
