El Kaabi's Breathtaking Strike Wraps Up The Atlas Lions' Victory Over the Coelacanths in Afcon Opener.
Host nation Morocco overcame a jittery start to defeat their island opponents in the tournament's inaugural fixture on Sunday, with goals from Brahim Díaz and substitute Ayoub El Kaabi in the latter period.
This constituted a less than dominant display, though, from the highly fancied Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places higher than the tiny Indian Ocean nation in the world rankings and were forced to work tirelessly for the points in rainy conditions at the Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Nervy Start and Missed Opportunities
Morocco failed to convert an early penalty and were goalless at the interval even with controlling possession, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
The goal arrived after Noussair Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before laying it across for Brahim Díaz to sidefoot home.
“The opening game is never easy but we improved in the second half,” commented manager Regragui.
The Substitute's Moment of Magic
The tension was subsequently eased by a piece of sheer individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes after his introduction, the striker met a cross with a stunning bicycle kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the result.
Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team might have taken the lead in the 11th minute when a penalty was awarded for a foul on Brahim Díaz. However, Rahimi's effort was kept out by keeper Pandor.
Comoros Defiant Stand and Late Chance
Comoros stoutly defended against Morocco at bay before the hosts' individual talent in the end made the difference.
Goalkeeper Pandor made several further good stops to limit the scoreline as the game wore on, although Comoros did have a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly after the first goal, with Saïd firing directly into keeper Yassine Bounou.
Fitness Concern for Hosts
The three points was somewhat overshadowed by an apparent injury to the skipper, Romain Saïss, who was forced off after the 18th minute in tears.
The defender had just returned to the international setup recently following a year’s absence caused by ankle surgery.
The win continues Morocco's historic run of successive wins to nineteen, beating the previous record of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.
