Ayoub El Kaabi's Spectacular Finish Wraps Up The Atlas Lions' Triumph Over Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations First Game.
The Morocco overcame a jittery beginning to overcome Comoros in the competition's first match on Sunday, after strikes by the Real Madrid attacker and super-sub Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
This constituted a far from convincing display, though, from the heavily tipped hosts, who sit 97 places higher than the tiny Indian Ocean nation in the FIFA rankings and had to toil hard for the three points in rainy conditions at the national stadium.
Tense Beginning and Spurned Chances
The hosts failed to convert an early spot-kick and were locked at 0-0 at the interval despite controlling possession, finally breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
The goal arrived after full-back Mazraoui did well to keep the ball in play before laying it square for Brahim Díaz to calmly pass home.
Every opening game is invariably tough but we delivered in the second half,” commented Morocco coach Regragui.
The Substitute's Piece of Magic
The tension was then eased by a moment of pure individual brilliance from substitute El Kaabi. Only ten minutes after his introduction, the forward connected with a cross with a spectacular overhead kick in the 74th minute, doubling and sealing the win.
Before that, the Moroccan team could have been the lead in the 11th minute when a penalty was given for a foul on Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi effort was kept out by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.
The Visitors' Defiant Stand and Late Opportunity
The underdogs comfortably held their more illustrious opponents for long periods until the Moroccans' individual talent eventually made the difference.
Shot-stopper Yannick Pandor made several further good stops to keep down the score as the game wore on, even though Comoros created a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly after Díaz's goal, with Saïd shooting directly into Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.
Injury Concern for Morocco
The three points was partially overshadowed by an apparent injury to the captain, Saïss, who was forced off in the 18th minute apparently in some distress.
This defender had just made his comeback to the national side last month following a lengthy layoff caused by ankle surgery.
This result extends Morocco's record-breaking run of consecutive victories to 19, surpassing the previous best of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.
