Ayoub El Kaabi's Spectacular Strike Secures The Atlas Lions' Triumph Against the Coelacanths in Afcon First Game.
The Morocco overcame a anxious start to defeat Comoros in the competition's first match on the weekend, with goals from Brahim Díaz and super-sub Ayoub El Kaabi in the latter period.
It was a less than dominant display, though, from the highly fancied hosts, who sit 97 places higher than the small Indian Ocean nation in the world rankings and were forced to work tirelessly for the victory in rainy conditions at the national stadium.
Nervy Beginning and Missed Opportunities
The hosts failed to convert an first-half penalty and were locked at 0-0 at half-time even with dominating the ball, finally breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
The goal arrived after full-back Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before laying it square for Díaz to sidefoot home.
“The first match is invariably tough but we came good in the second period,” commented manager Regragui.
El Kaabi's Moment of Magic
Any lingering nerves was subsequently calmed by a piece of pure genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes after his introduction, the striker connected with a cross with a spectacular bicycle kick in the 74th minute, making it two and ensuring the result.
Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team might have taken ahead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was awarded for a challenge on Brahim Díaz. However, Soufiane Rahimi penalty was kept out by keeper Yannick Pandor.
The Visitors' Resistance and Second-Half Chance
Comoros stoutly defended against Morocco for long periods until the hosts' greater quality eventually told.
Goalkeeper Pandor pulled off several further good stops to limit the scoreline as the game progressed, even though his team created a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly after the first goal, with Saïd firing directly into keeper Bounou.
Fitness Concern for Hosts
The three points was partially marred by an apparent injury to Morocco's skipper, Romain Saïss, who was forced off after the first half apparently in some distress.
The centre-back had just returned to the national side recently after a lengthy absence due to ankle surgery.
The win continues the team's record-breaking run of successive victories to 19, surpassing the previous record of 15 set by the Spanish national team from 2008 and 2009.
