Ayoub El Kaabi's Stunning Strike Secures Morocco's Victory Against the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations Opener.
Host nation Morocco shook off a anxious start to beat Comoros in the competition's first match on Sunday, with goals from the Real Madrid attacker and super-sub El Kaabi in the second half.
It was a less than dominant showing, though, from the strongly favored hosts, who sit 97 places higher than the tiny Indian Ocean nation in the FIFA rankings and had to work tirelessly for the victory in rainy conditions at Rabat's national stadium.
Tense Beginning and Spurned Opportunities
The hosts missed an early penalty and were locked at 0-0 at half-time even with dominating the ball, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
It arrived after full-back Mazraoui showed great skill to keep the ball in play before laying it across for Díaz to sidefoot home.
“The opening game is never easy but we came good in the second half,” commented manager Walid Regragui.
El Kaabi's Piece of Magic
The tension was subsequently eased by a piece of sheer genius from substitute El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes following coming on, the striker met a cross with a stunning overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the win.
Earlier in the match, the hosts could have been the lead in the 11th minute when a penalty was awarded for a foul on Brahim Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi penalty was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor.
The Visitors' Defiant Stand and Late Chance
Comoros comfortably held Morocco at bay before the hosts' greater quality in the end told.
Goalkeeper Pandor pulled off several other fine saves to limit the scoreline as the game progressed, even though his team did have a chance for an equaliser shortly following Díaz's goal, with Rafiki Saïd shooting straight at keeper Bounou.
Fitness Concern for Morocco
The three points was somewhat marred by an injury to the skipper, Saïss, who limped off in the 18th minute apparently in tears.
This centre-back had only made his comeback to the international setup recently following a year’s absence caused by ankle surgery.
The win continues the team's record-breaking run of successive victories to 19, surpassing the previous record of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.
