Ayoub El Kaabi's Breathtaking Finish Caps The Atlas Lions' Triumph Over Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations Opening Match.
The Morocco overcame a nervy start to defeat Comoros in the tournament's first match on the weekend, after strikes by Brahim Díaz and substitute El Kaabi in the latter period.
This constituted a far from convincing display, however, from the highly fancied hosts, who are ranked 97 places above the small island nation in the world rankings and were forced to toil hard for the three points in wet conditions at Rabat's national stadium.
Nervy Start and Spurned Chances
Morocco failed to convert an early penalty and were goalless at half-time even with controlling the ball, finally opening the scoring in the 11th minute of the second half.
The goal arrived after full-back Mazraoui showed great skill to keep the ball in play before laying it across for Brahim Díaz to sidefoot into the net.
“The first match is invariably tough but we came good in the second half,” commented Morocco coach Walid Regragui.
The Substitute's Moment of Magic
The tension was subsequently calmed by a moment of pure genius from substitute El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes after his introduction, the striker connected with a ball into the box with a stunning overhead kick in the 74th minute, doubling and sealing the win.
Earlier in the match, the hosts could have been ahead in the 11th minute after a spot-kick was awarded for a challenge on Díaz. Yet, Rahimi's effort was saved by keeper Pandor.
The Visitors' Resistance and Second-Half Opportunity
The underdogs stoutly defended against their more illustrious opponents at bay until the Moroccans' greater quality eventually told.
Shot-stopper Pandor pulled off a number of further fine saves to limit the scoreline as the match progressed, even though Comoros did have a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly following Díaz's goal, with Rafiki Saïd shooting straight at Morocco goalkeeper Bounou.
Injury Concern for Hosts
The three points was somewhat overshadowed by an injury to Morocco's captain, Saïss, who limped off after the 18th minute apparently in tears.
This centre-back had only made his comeback to the international setup last month following a year’s layoff caused by ankle surgery.
This result continues the team's historic run of successive wins to 19, beating the previous record of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.
