Yannick Pandor Denies Morocco: Comoros Goalkeeper Saves Soufiane Rahimi’s Penalty in AFCON 2025 Opener

Yannick Pandor produced a crucial penalty save against Soufiane Rahimi in the opening match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations between Comoros and hosts Morocco, a moment that had a major impact on the tone of the game. 

The contest was played in Rabat as part of the tournament’s Group A fixtures, with Morocco entering the game as clear favourites and Comoros as underdogs. Pandor’s intervention came early, denying Morocco what looked like a perfect chance to take the lead. 

Morocco enjoyed early control of possession and pushed Comoros deep into their own half, probing for openings. In the around the 10th minute, the referee awarded a penalty to the Atlas Lions after a challenge on Brahim Díaz in the box. Soufiane Rahimi, one of Morocco’s most dangerous attacking players and known for his scoring threat, stepped up to take the spot kick with the roaring home crowd behind him. However, the execution of the penalty lacked the typical precision expected at this level, with the ball struck centrally. Pandor reacted quickly, diving to his right and getting a vital touch with his foot to keep the scoreline level at 0‑0. 

The significance of the save went beyond the moment itself. Not only did Pandor keep Morocco from opening the scoring at a stage when hosts often seek to assert dominance, but he also gave a tremendous boost to the confidence and belief of the Comoros team. For a smaller footballing nation like the Comoros, competing on one of Africa’s biggest stages against a highly rated opponent, moments like this can galvanise a squad and lift the collective performance. His reaction from teammates and the supporters underscored the importance of preventing Morocco from grabbing an early lead. 

From Morocco’s perspective, missing the penalty was a frustrating start to their campaign. The Atlas Lions came into the tournament enjoying strong recent form, including a long winning run in friendlies that had built optimism among fans and pundits about their chances. Rahimi himself had scored from the penalty spot in preparation matches, making the miss here even more unexpected. Instead of setting the hosts on their way with a lead, the saved penalty allowed Comoros to stay competitive and maintain a compact defensive structure that made it difficult for Morocco to find clear opportunities. 

The mood in the stadium reflected the drama of the moment. Moroccan fans were vocal in their disappointment at the missed opportunity and the penalty decision, which some observers considered a soft call, while Comorian supporters erupted in celebration at Pandor’s composed performance. The goalkeeper’s name quickly trended among match reports and online discussion as neutrals applauded his bravery and skill under pressure. 

As the match continued, both teams settled into a tactical battle. Morocco pressed for an opening goal, but Comoros defended with discipline, buoyed by the early intervention from Pandor. At halftime, the score remained 0‑0, with the saved penalty still a defining moment of the first half. 

For Morocco, the challenge became not only creating chances but also breaking down a resolute defence that had earned belief from one decisive stop. 

For Comoros, Pandor’s penalty save stood out as a highlight in what was a hard‑fought performance against one of Africa’s top sides at the start of AFCON 2025.