Ayoub El Kaabi's Stunning Finish Secures The Atlas Lions' Triumph Over Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations First Game.
The Morocco shook off a anxious start to overcome Comoros in the competition's inaugural fixture on the weekend, thanks to Brahim Díaz and substitute Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
This constituted a far from convincing display, though, from the highly fancied hosts, who are ranked 97 places above the small island nation in the FIFA rankings and had to toil hard for the points in rainy conditions at Rabat's national stadium.
Tense Beginning and Spurned Opportunities
Morocco missed an early spot-kick and were goalless at the interval even with dominating the ball, finally breaking the deadlock in the 11th minute of the second half.
It arrived after Noussair Mazraoui showed great skill to keep the ball in play before slipping it across for Díaz to calmly pass home.
“The opening game is always difficult but we delivered in the second period,” commented Morocco coach Regragui.
The Substitute's Piece of Brilliance
Any lingering nerves was subsequently extinguished by a piece of pure individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes after his introduction, the forward met a cross with a spectacular overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the result.
Before that, the Moroccan team could have been the lead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was given for a foul on Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi penalty was saved by keeper Pandor.
Comoros Resistance and Second-Half Opportunity
The underdogs stoutly defended against Morocco for long periods before the hosts' greater quality eventually told.
Goalkeeper Pandor made a number of further good stops to limit the score as the game wore on, even though Comoros did have a chance for an equalizer shortly after the first goal, with Saïd shooting straight at Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.
Injury Concern for Morocco
The victory was somewhat overshadowed by an injury to the captain, Saïss, who limped off in the 18th minute in tears.
This centre-back had only made his comeback to the international setup recently following a lengthy absence due to a serious ankle operation.
The win continues Morocco's historic run of consecutive victories to 19, surpassing the old record of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.
