Comoros Coach: 'Facing Morocco is Like Climbing Mount Everest'

Stefano Cozin, head coach of the Comoros national team, stated in an interview with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) official website that facing the Moroccan national team in the opening match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations will be one of the toughest challenges his team will encounter in the tournament.

The Italian coach likened this encounter to attempting to climb Mount Everest, saying: "Morocco is a very strong team. They are the best team in Africa and one of the strongest in the world, especially after reaching the World Cup semi-finals and their consecutive victories. Therefore, the task seems like climbing Mount Everest."

Cozin added, speaking to CAF, that the pressure would be on the Moroccan national team, given their status as hosts and clear favorites. He explained: "The greatest pressure is on Morocco because they are expected to win. As for us, we will focus on delivering a great performance, and if a positive result comes with it, that would be wonderful."

The Comoros coach also touched upon the team's preparation conditions for the tournament, noting some changes to their training schedule. He said: "The recent changes in the preparation schedule affected us a little, but we adapted quickly by holding a mini-camp in Southern France."

He also praised the development of African football, particularly in terms of infrastructure and organization, asserting: "What we have seen in Africa in terms of stadiums, infrastructure, and amazing organization is remarkable. We have felt a great welcome since our arrival, the atmosphere is fantastic, and we are truly immersed in the competitive spirit."

Cozin concluded his remarks by emphasizing the difficulty of their group, which includes Morocco, Mali, and Zambia, stating: "All the teams here are strong, and the real challenge for us is to defy expectations and try to be the surprise of this edition."