Ayoub El Kaabi's Stunning Strike Wraps Up The Atlas Lions' Triumph Against the Coelacanths in Afcon Opening Match.
The Morocco overcame a jittery start to defeat Comoros in the tournament's first match on Sunday, with goals from Brahim Díaz and super-sub El Kaabi in the latter period.
This constituted a far from convincing showing, though, from the highly fancied Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places higher than the tiny Indian Ocean nation in the world rankings and were forced to toil hard for the three points in wet conditions at Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Nervy Start and Spurned Opportunities
Morocco failed to convert an early penalty and were locked at 0-0 at the interval despite controlling the ball, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 11th minute of the second half.
The goal came when Noussair Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before slipping it square for Brahim Díaz to sidefoot home.
Every opening game is never easy but we came good in the second period,” commented Morocco coach Walid Regragui.
The Substitute's Piece of Brilliance
Any lingering nerves was then eased by a piece of sheer genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Only 10 minutes following his introduction, the striker met a ball into the box with a acrobatic bicycle kick in the 74th minute, making it two and ensuring the result.
Earlier in the match, the hosts could have been ahead in the 11th minute after a spot-kick was given for a foul on Díaz. Yet, Rahimi's penalty was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.
The Visitors' Resistance and Late Opportunity
Comoros stoutly defended against their more illustrious opponents at bay before the hosts' superior firepower eventually told.
Shot-stopper Yannick Pandor made several further fine saves to keep down the scoreline as the match progressed, although his team did have a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly after Díaz's goal, with Rafiki Saïd shooting straight at Morocco goalkeeper Bounou.
Fitness Worry for Hosts
The three points was partially overshadowed by an apparent injury to Morocco's captain, Romain Saïss, who limped off after the 18th minute in tears.
This defender had just returned to the international setup last month following a lengthy absence due to a serious ankle operation.
This result extends the team's historic run of consecutive wins to nineteen, surpassing the previous best of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.
