Cusin previews Comoros AFCON opener: ‘Morocco under pressure’

Comoros national team coach Stefano Cusin has discussed their opening fixture of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) against Morocco.

The Coelacanths of Comoros will be returning for their second AFCON appearance, determined to build on their historic debut in 2021. Their impressive qualification campaign, marked by a vital victory over Tunisia, showcases the squad’s growing confidence and cohesion.

The Island nation have been drawn in Group A aloingside Morocco, Zambia, and Mali. They will play the first fixture of the tournament when against the Atlas Lions at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium on December 21.

Giving his thoughts on facing the host nation, Cusin believes it will be the easiest game for his charges at the AFCON because they will not be under any pressure.

“For me, Morocco is the side under pressure. They have to win this match, finish top of the group, and aim for the trophy. For my team, it’s the perfect match, the easiest to play: there’s no pressure on us. Our goal is simply to put in a good performance,” said Cusin as quoted by Foot Africa.

Comoros will also face Zambia, and Mali

“A great deal of tactical focus. Mental strength is crucial: going into this match with humility, but also with the right mentality and determination. Even if the opponent is Morocco, a top team, mentality, discipline, and tactics can make all the difference.”

He added: “We’re a young team, rebuilding for the past two years. We’re back at AFCON after our debut in Cameroon. We’re not going there with any limits.

“The most important thing is to enjoy ourselves and make our supporters happy. The Comoros fans are wonderful, I saw that again in November. We want to make them proud. That’s our objective.”

Cusin further believes their qualification for the AFCON for the second time will be a great boost to his players as they take on the best in Morocco.

“The group is doing very well. The spirit is excellent, just as it was from day one when I took charge. We’re calm, aware of the quality of the opponent—Morocco, the best team in Africa and one of the best in the world, with 18 consecutive wins,” he added.

“But we’re also coming off a qualifying campaign where we finished top ahead of Tunisia, Madagascar, and Gambia. That’s no small feat.”

After playing Morocco, Comoros will face the Chipolopolo at Stade Mohammed V, before winding up their group fixture against Mali at Stade Mohammed V.

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