Ayoub El Kaabi's Stunning Strike Wraps Up The Atlas Lions' Win Over Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations First Game.
Host nation the Moroccan side overcame a anxious beginning to defeat their island opponents in the competition's first match on the weekend, thanks to the Real Madrid attacker and super-sub Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
This constituted a less than dominant display, however, from the highly fancied hosts, who are ranked 97 places above the tiny Indian Ocean nation in the world rankings and were forced to work tirelessly for the three points in wet conditions at Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Nervy Beginning and Missed Opportunities
Morocco failed to convert an early penalty and were locked at 0-0 at the interval even with dominating possession, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
It came when Noussair Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before slipping it square for Brahim Díaz to calmly pass into the net.
“The first match is never easy but we came good in the second period,” commented Morocco coach Regragui.
El Kaabi's Piece of Brilliance
The tension was subsequently calmed by a piece of pure genius from substitute El Kaabi. Just ten minutes following his introduction, the striker met a cross with a spectacular overhead kick in the 74th minute, doubling and sealing the win.
Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team might have taken the lead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was awarded for a foul on Díaz. However, Rahimi's effort was kept out by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor.
The Visitors' Defiant Stand and Late Chance
The underdogs comfortably held Morocco at bay before the hosts' greater quality eventually made the difference.
Shot-stopper Pandor made a number of other fine saves to limit the scoreline as the match progressed, although his team created a chance for an equalizer shortly after Díaz's goal, with Saïd shooting straight at Morocco goalkeeper Bounou.
Injury Worry for Hosts
The three points was partially marred by an apparent injury to Morocco's skipper, Romain Saïss, who was forced off after the first half in tears.
This defender had just returned to the national side last month after a lengthy layoff caused by a serious ankle operation.
This result extends the team's record-breaking run of consecutive wins to nineteen, surpassing the old best of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.
