Ayoub El Kaabi's Spectacular Goal Secures The Atlas Lions' Triumph Against Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations Opening Match.
Host nation the Moroccan side overcame a nervy start to overcome their island opponents in the competition's first match on Sunday, thanks to Brahim Díaz and super-sub El Kaabi in the latter period.
It was a far from convincing showing, though, from the heavily tipped Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places above the small Indian Ocean nation in the FIFA rankings and were forced to grind out for the points in rainy conditions at the national stadium.
Tense Start and Missed Opportunities
The hosts missed an early spot-kick and were goalless at the interval even with controlling the ball, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
The goal arrived after full-back Mazraoui showed great skill to prevent the ball from going out before slipping it square for Díaz to sidefoot into the net.
Every first match is invariably tough but we came good in the second half,” commented manager Walid Regragui.
El Kaabi's Piece of Magic
The tension was then extinguished by a moment of sheer individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Only ten minutes after his introduction, the forward connected with a ball into the box with a stunning overhead kick in the 74th minute, doubling and ensuring the win.
Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team could have been ahead in the 11th minute after a penalty was awarded for a foul on Díaz. However, Rahimi's effort was saved by keeper Pandor.
Comoros Defiant Stand and Late Chance
Comoros comfortably held their more illustrious opponents at bay before the Moroccans' individual talent in the end made the difference.
Shot-stopper Pandor made several other fine saves to keep down the score as the match wore on, although Comoros created a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly following Díaz's goal, with Saïd shooting directly into keeper Bounou.
Injury Concern for Hosts
The victory was partially marred by an injury to Morocco's captain, Saïss, who was forced off after the 18th minute apparently in tears.
The centre-back had only made his comeback to the national side last month following a lengthy absence caused by a serious ankle operation.
This result extends the team's record-breaking run of successive wins to nineteen, beating the old best of 15 set by the Spanish national team from 2008 and 2009.
