Ayoub El Kaabi's Breathtaking Finish Secures The Atlas Lions' Win Over the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations Opener.
The Morocco shook off a jittery start to beat Comoros in the tournament's inaugural fixture on the weekend, thanks to Brahim Díaz and super-sub El Kaabi in the latter period.
This constituted a far from convincing showing, though, from the heavily tipped hosts, who are ranked 97 places higher than the small Indian Ocean nation in the FIFA rankings and had to grind out for the victory in wet conditions at Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Nervy Start and Missed Opportunities
Morocco failed to convert an first-half spot-kick and were goalless at half-time even with dominating possession, finally breaking the deadlock in the 11th minute of the second half.
It arrived after Noussair Mazraoui showed great skill to prevent the ball from going out before slipping it square for Díaz to sidefoot into the net.
Every opening game is never easy but we delivered in the second period,” said manager Regragui.
El Kaabi's Piece of Brilliance
Any lingering nerves was then extinguished by a piece of pure individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just ten minutes after his introduction, the forward met a ball into the box with a spectacular bicycle kick in the 74th minute, making it two and ensuring the result.
Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team could have been ahead in the 11th minute after a penalty was awarded for a challenge on Díaz. Yet, Rahimi's effort was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.
Comoros Resistance and Late Opportunity
The underdogs comfortably held Morocco for long periods before the hosts' individual talent eventually made the difference.
Shot-stopper Pandor pulled off a number of other fine saves to limit the score as the match wore on, although Comoros created a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly after Díaz's goal, with Rafiki Saïd firing straight at keeper Bounou.
Injury Worry for Hosts
The three points was somewhat marred by an apparent injury to the captain, Saïss, who was forced off in the first half apparently in some distress.
The centre-back had just made his comeback to the international setup recently following a lengthy layoff caused by a serious ankle operation.
The win continues Morocco's record-breaking run of successive wins to nineteen, surpassing the previous best of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.
