El Kaabi's Spectacular Strike Wraps Up The Atlas Lions' Triumph Against Comoros in Afcon Opener.
Host nation Morocco shook off a nervy start to defeat Comoros in the tournament's first match on the weekend, thanks to the Real Madrid attacker and substitute Ayoub El Kaabi in the latter period.
This constituted a far from convincing performance, though, from the strongly favored hosts, who sit 97 places higher than the tiny island nation in the world rankings and had to work tirelessly for the three points in rainy conditions at the Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Nervy Beginning and Missed Chances
Morocco failed to convert an early penalty and were goalless at half-time even with dominating the ball, finally opening the scoring in the 11th minute of the second half.
The goal came when full-back Mazraoui showed great skill to keep the ball in play before laying it across for Brahim Díaz to sidefoot home.
Every opening game is never easy but we improved in the second half,” commented manager Regragui.
The Substitute's Moment of Magic
Any lingering nerves was subsequently eased by a piece of pure genius from substitute El Kaabi. Just ten minutes after his introduction, the forward met a ball into the box with a stunning bicycle kick in the 74th minute, doubling and sealing the result.
Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team could have been the lead in the 11th minute after a spot-kick was given for a challenge on Brahim Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi effort was kept out by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.
The Visitors' Defiant Stand and Second-Half Chance
The underdogs comfortably held Morocco at bay until the Moroccans' individual talent eventually told.
Goalkeeper Pandor pulled off several further good stops to limit the scoreline as the match progressed, even though his team did have a chance for an equalizer shortly after Díaz's goal, with Saïd shooting directly into keeper Bounou.
Fitness Concern for Morocco
The three points was partially marred by an apparent injury to the captain, Saïss, who was forced off in the 18th minute in some distress.
This defender had only returned to the international setup last month following a lengthy absence due to ankle surgery.
This result continues the team's historic run of successive victories to 19, beating the previous best of 15 set by the Spanish national team between 2008 and 2009.
