AFCON: Comoros looking to 'climb Everest' when they take on host nation Morocco

Cusin and charges enter the tournament as one of the lowest ranked teams and know he will have his work cut out against continent's number one ranked side.

Speaking to CAF's online publication, Cusin said: "Morocco are an exceptional team - the best in Africa and one of the strongest in the world.

"They are ranked ahead of Italy in the FIFA standings, reached the semi-finals of the World Cup, boast of players from top clubs and are on an 18-match winning run.

"On paper, it is like climbing Everest. But football has its magic: anything can happen. The key is to be ready on the day. The pressure is mainly on Morocco, who are expected to win.

""For us, the aim is simply to deliver a strong performance - and if a pleasant surprise comes with the result, all the better."    The Italian mentor says they could spring a surprise in the group though, that also includes games against Mali and Zambia.

Cusin added: "All the teams finished top of their qualifying groups. Mali, whom we have faced before, are very solid.

"Morocco are clear favourites, and Zambia are AFCON regulars who have already won the competition, in 2012.

"These are strong opponents, and we have never beaten them. The real challenge, therefore, is to upset the predictions.

"We have a young, talented team that plays attractive football. As I often say, a coach must believe his own garden is greener than the neighbour's. I believe in my team.

"We do not want to place limits on ourselves. Saying that our objective is simply to get through the group stage could create a sense of complacency.

"We will take the tournament one match at a time, with the ambition of going as far as possible.

"We have a young and promising team. Whatever the outcome, we will accept it, because everything is in Godâ™s hands.

"We are approaching this Africa Cup of Nations with enthusiasm and with the determination to be the surprise team of the tournament."

READ MORE: How can I watch Morocco battle Comoros in the opening match of AFCON 2025 on Sunday?