Ayoub El Kaabi's Breathtaking Finish Wraps Up Morocco's Triumph Over Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations Opener.
The Morocco overcame a anxious beginning to beat their island opponents in the tournament's first match on Sunday, thanks to the Real Madrid attacker and substitute El Kaabi in the latter period.
It was a hardly emphatic display, however, from the strongly favored hosts, who sit 97 places above the small island nation in the world rankings and were forced to toil hard for the three points in wet conditions at Rabat's national stadium.
Nervy Beginning and Missed Chances
The hosts missed an first-half spot-kick and were locked at 0-0 at half-time even with dominating the ball, eventually opening the scoring in the 55th minute.
The goal arrived after Noussair Mazraoui showed great skill to prevent the ball from going out before slipping it across for Díaz to sidefoot home.
“The opening game is always difficult but we came good in the second half,” said manager Walid Regragui.
El Kaabi's Moment of Brilliance
Any lingering nerves was subsequently extinguished by a moment of pure genius from substitute El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes after coming on, the striker connected with a cross with a spectacular bicycle kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the result.
Earlier in the match, the hosts might have taken the lead in the 11th minute after a spot-kick was awarded for a foul on Brahim Díaz. However, Soufiane Rahimi effort was saved by keeper Yannick Pandor.
The Visitors' Defiant Stand and Late Chance
Comoros stoutly defended against their more illustrious opponents for long periods before the Moroccans' greater quality in the end made the difference.
Goalkeeper Yannick Pandor made several further good stops to limit the score as the game progressed, although Comoros did have a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly after the first goal, with Saïd shooting straight at keeper Yassine Bounou.
Fitness Concern for Morocco
The three points was partially marred by an apparent injury to Morocco's skipper, Saïss, who was forced off in the first half in tears.
This centre-back had just returned to the international setup last month after a year’s layoff due to ankle surgery.
This result continues Morocco's historic run of successive victories to nineteen, beating the previous best of 15 set by the Spanish national team from 2008 and 2009.