Ayoub El Kaabi's Stunning Goal Caps Morocco's Win Over the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations Opening Match.
Host nation the Moroccan side overcame a nervy beginning to defeat Comoros in the tournament's inaugural fixture on the weekend, thanks to the Real Madrid attacker and substitute Ayoub El Kaabi in the latter period.
This constituted a far from convincing showing, though, from the strongly favored Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places higher than the tiny island nation in the FIFA rankings and were forced to grind out for the victory in rainy conditions at the Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Nervy Beginning and Missed Opportunities
The hosts failed to convert an first-half penalty and were locked at 0-0 at the interval even with controlling possession, eventually 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 square for Brahim Díaz to calmly pass home.
“The first match is never easy but we delivered in the second half,” said Morocco coach Walid Regragui.
El Kaabi's Moment of Magic
Any lingering nerves was then eased by a piece of pure individual brilliance from substitute El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes after coming on, the forward met a cross with a stunning bicycle kick in the 74th minute, making it two and ensuring the result.
Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team might have taken the lead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was awarded for a foul on Díaz. However, Rahimi's effort was saved by keeper Pandor.
The Visitors' Resistance and Late Chance
Comoros stoutly defended against their more illustrious opponents for long periods until the Moroccans' greater quality eventually made the difference.
Shot-stopper Pandor pulled off several further good stops to limit the score as the game wore on, although his team did have a chance for an equalizer shortly after Díaz's goal, with Saïd firing straight at keeper Bounou.
Fitness Worry for Hosts
The victory was partially marred by an injury to the captain, Saïss, who limped off after the 18th minute in tears.
This defender had only made his comeback to the national side last month after a year’s absence caused by a serious ankle operation.
The win extends the team's record-breaking run of consecutive victories to nineteen, surpassing the old record of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.
