Ayoub El Kaabi's Breathtaking Strike Caps Morocco's Triumph Over the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations Opener.
The the Moroccan side overcame a nervy start to beat Comoros in the tournament's first match on the weekend, with goals from the Real Madrid attacker and super-sub Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
It was a far from convincing performance, however, from the heavily tipped Moroccans, who sit 97 places above the tiny island nation in the world rankings and were forced to toil hard for the three points in rainy conditions at the national stadium.
Nervy Start and Spurned Opportunities
The hosts missed an first-half penalty and were locked at 0-0 at half-time despite controlling the ball, finally opening the scoring in the 11th minute of the second half.
The goal came when Noussair Mazraoui did well to keep the ball in play before laying it square for Brahim Díaz to calmly pass home.
Every first match is invariably tough but we improved in the second period,” commented Morocco coach Walid Regragui.
The Substitute's Moment of Magic
The tension was then eased by a piece of sheer genius from substitute El Kaabi. Only 10 minutes after his introduction, the striker met a cross with a acrobatic overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the win.
Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team might have taken ahead in the 11th minute after a penalty was awarded for a challenge on Díaz. Yet, Rahimi's effort was kept out by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor.
The Visitors' Defiant Stand and Late Chance
Comoros comfortably held their more illustrious opponents at bay before the hosts' individual talent in the end made the difference.
Goalkeeper Yannick Pandor pulled off a number of other good stops to keep down the scoreline as the game wore on, although Comoros created a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly following the first goal, with Rafiki Saïd firing straight at keeper Bounou.
Fitness Concern for Hosts
The three points was somewhat marred by an injury to Morocco's captain, Saïss, who was forced off after the first half in tears.
This defender had only made his comeback to the international setup recently following a lengthy absence caused by a serious ankle operation.
This result continues Morocco's record-breaking run of successive wins to nineteen, surpassing the previous best of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.
