Ayoub El Kaabi's Breathtaking Finish Secures The Atlas Lions' Triumph Over the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations First Game.
Host nation the Moroccan side shook off a nervy start to beat Comoros in the tournament's opening game on the weekend, thanks to Brahim Díaz and super-sub El Kaabi in the latter period.
This constituted a hardly emphatic performance, though, from the strongly favored hosts, who sit 97 places higher than the small island nation in the world rankings and had to work tirelessly for the victory in wet conditions at the Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Nervy Beginning and Spurned Chances
Morocco missed an first-half penalty and were locked at 0-0 at half-time even with dominating the ball, finally breaking the deadlock in the 11th minute of the second half.
It arrived after full-back Mazraoui showed great skill to keep the ball in play before slipping it across for Brahim Díaz to calmly pass into the net.
Every first match is invariably tough but we delivered in the second half,” said manager Regragui.
El Kaabi's Piece of Brilliance
The tension was subsequently eased by a moment of pure individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Only ten minutes following his introduction, the striker connected with a ball into the box with a spectacular overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the win.
Before that, the Moroccan team could have been the lead in the 11th minute after a penalty was given for a challenge on Díaz. However, Rahimi's penalty was saved by keeper Pandor.
Comoros Defiant Stand and Late Chance
The underdogs stoutly defended against Morocco for long periods until the hosts' individual talent eventually made the difference.
Shot-stopper Yannick Pandor pulled off a number of further fine saves to limit the scoreline as the game wore on, although his team did have a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly after Díaz's goal, with Saïd shooting directly into keeper Yassine Bounou.
Injury Worry for Morocco
The victory was partially overshadowed by an injury to Morocco's captain, Saïss, who was forced off after the 18th minute in some distress.
The defender had just returned to the national side recently following a year’s absence due to a serious ankle operation.
This result continues the team's record-breaking run of successive wins to nineteen, beating the old record of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.
