Ayoub El Kaabi's Spectacular Finish Caps The Atlas Lions' Victory Against Comoros in Afcon Opening Match.
The the Moroccan side shook off a jittery beginning to overcome their island opponents in the competition's first match on the weekend, after strikes by the Real Madrid attacker and substitute Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
This constituted a far from convincing showing, though, from the strongly favored hosts, who sit 97 places above the small island nation in the FIFA rankings and were forced to grind out for the victory in wet conditions at the national stadium.
Tense Beginning and Spurned Opportunities
Morocco failed to convert an early spot-kick and were locked at 0-0 at the interval even with controlling possession, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
It came when full-back Mazraoui did well to keep the ball in play before laying it across for Brahim Díaz to calmly pass home.
Every opening game is never easy but we improved in the second period,” said Morocco coach Walid Regragui.
The Substitute's Moment of Magic
The tension was then calmed by a moment of sheer genius from substitute El Kaabi. Only 10 minutes after coming on, the striker met a ball into the box with a acrobatic overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the win.
Earlier in the match, the hosts could have been ahead in the 11th minute after a penalty was awarded for a foul on Brahim Díaz. However, Soufiane Rahimi effort was kept out by keeper Yannick Pandor.
The Visitors' Resistance and Second-Half Opportunity
Comoros comfortably held their more illustrious opponents at bay until the hosts' individual talent in the end told.
Goalkeeper Yannick Pandor made several further fine saves to limit the scoreline as the match wore on, although Comoros did have a chance for an equalizer shortly following the first goal, with Saïd shooting straight at keeper Bounou.
Injury Worry for Hosts
The three points was somewhat marred by an injury to the skipper, Romain Saïss, who was forced off in the first half in some distress.
The centre-back had just returned to the international setup recently after a lengthy absence caused by ankle surgery.
This result continues Morocco's historic run of consecutive wins to 19, surpassing the old best of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.
