Ayoub El Kaabi's Stunning Goal Wraps Up Morocco's Victory Against the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations Opening Match.
Host nation Morocco overcame a nervy start to beat their island opponents in the tournament's first match on Sunday, after strikes by the Real Madrid attacker and super-sub Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
It was a far from convincing showing, however, from the highly fancied Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places above the tiny Indian Ocean nation in the world rankings and were forced to work tirelessly for the points in rainy conditions at Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Tense Beginning and Spurned Chances
Morocco missed an early penalty and were goalless at the interval despite controlling the ball, finally opening the scoring in the 11th minute of the second half.
It arrived after full-back Mazraoui showed great skill to prevent the ball from going out before laying it across for Brahim Díaz to sidefoot into the net.
Every opening game is never easy but we improved in the second period,” commented Morocco coach Regragui.
The Substitute's Piece of Magic
The tension was subsequently calmed by a moment of sheer individual brilliance from substitute El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes after his introduction, the forward met a cross with a spectacular bicycle kick in the 74th minute, doubling and sealing the win.
Earlier in the match, the hosts could have been ahead in the 11th minute when a penalty was awarded for a foul on Brahim Díaz. However, Rahimi's effort was saved by keeper Pandor.
Comoros Defiant Stand and Second-Half Chance
Comoros stoutly defended against Morocco at bay until the Moroccans' greater quality in the end made the difference.
Goalkeeper Pandor pulled off several other good stops to keep down the scoreline as the game wore on, although Comoros created a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly following Díaz's goal, with Rafiki Saïd shooting straight at keeper Yassine Bounou.
Fitness Worry for Morocco
The three points was partially overshadowed by an injury to the captain, Saïss, who was forced off after the first half apparently in tears.
The centre-back had just returned to the national side last month after a lengthy layoff due to a serious ankle operation.
This result continues the team's historic run of successive victories to 19, beating the previous best of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.
