Ayoub El Kaabi's Spectacular Finish Wraps Up The Atlas Lions' Triumph Over Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations Opener.
Host nation Morocco shook off a jittery start to defeat their island opponents in the competition's first match on the weekend, after strikes by the Real Madrid attacker and super-sub El Kaabi in the latter period.
This constituted a far from convincing display, though, from the strongly favored Moroccans, who sit 97 places above the tiny island nation in the FIFA rankings and had to work tirelessly for the victory in rainy conditions at the national stadium.
Tense Beginning and Missed Opportunities
Morocco missed an first-half penalty and were locked at 0-0 at the interval even with dominating the ball, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 11th minute of the second half.
The goal arrived after full-back Mazraoui showed great skill to keep the ball in play before slipping it square for Brahim Díaz to sidefoot into the net.
“The opening game is always difficult but we improved in the second half,” commented Morocco coach Regragui.
El Kaabi's Piece of Magic
Any lingering nerves was then extinguished by a moment of pure genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes following his introduction, the forward connected with a cross with a acrobatic 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 when a penalty was awarded for a challenge on Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi penalty was kept out by keeper Yannick Pandor.
The Visitors' Defiant Stand and Late Chance
Comoros stoutly defended against Morocco at bay until the hosts' superior firepower eventually made the difference.
Shot-stopper Yannick Pandor made several further good stops to keep down the scoreline as the game wore on, even though Comoros did have a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly after Díaz's goal, with Saïd firing directly into Morocco goalkeeper Bounou.
Injury Concern for Morocco
The victory was somewhat marred by an apparent injury to Morocco's captain, Romain Saïss, who was forced off after the first half apparently in some distress.
The defender had just returned to the national side last month after a year’s absence caused by a serious ankle operation.
This result extends the team's record-breaking run of consecutive victories to 19, surpassing the previous record of 15 set by the Spanish national team between 2008 and 2009.
