El Kaabi's Stunning Goal Caps Morocco's Win Over the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations First Game.
The the Moroccan side overcame a nervy start to overcome their island opponents in the tournament's first match on Sunday, after strikes by Brahim Díaz and super-sub Ayoub El Kaabi in the latter period.
It was a far from convincing performance, however, from the strongly favored hosts, who are ranked 97 places above the small Indian Ocean nation in the world rankings and had to grind out for the points in rainy conditions at Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Tense Beginning and Spurned Opportunities
Morocco failed to convert an first-half spot-kick and were locked at 0-0 at the interval despite dominating the ball, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 11th minute of the second half.
The goal arrived after full-back Mazraoui showed great skill to keep the ball in play before slipping it across for Díaz to sidefoot home.
Every first match is never easy but we delivered in the second half,” said manager Walid Regragui.
El Kaabi's Moment of Magic
Any lingering nerves was then extinguished by a piece of pure genius from substitute El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes after coming on, the striker connected with a cross with a stunning overhead kick in the 74th minute, doubling and ensuring the result.
Before that, the hosts might have taken the lead in the 11th minute after a spot-kick was awarded for a challenge on Brahim Díaz. However, Soufiane Rahimi penalty was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor.
Comoros Defiant Stand and Second-Half Chance
The underdogs comfortably held Morocco for long periods before the hosts' greater quality eventually told.
Shot-stopper Pandor pulled off several further good stops to keep down the score as the game progressed, although Comoros did have a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly following Díaz's goal, with Saïd firing straight at keeper Bounou.
Fitness Concern for Hosts
The three points was somewhat marred by an injury to Morocco's skipper, Saïss, who was forced off in the 18th minute apparently in tears.
This centre-back had just made his comeback to the national side recently following a lengthy layoff due to ankle surgery.
This result continues Morocco's historic run of consecutive wins to nineteen, surpassing the old best of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.
