El Kaabi's Stunning Finish Caps Morocco's Triumph Against the Coelacanths in Afcon Opening Match.
The Morocco overcame a anxious beginning to overcome Comoros in the competition's opening game on the weekend, thanks to Brahim Díaz and super-sub Ayoub El Kaabi in the latter period.
This constituted a less than dominant display, however, from the heavily tipped hosts, who are ranked 97 places higher than the tiny island nation in the FIFA rankings and had to work tirelessly for the victory in rainy conditions at Rabat's national stadium.
Tense Beginning and Spurned Chances
Morocco missed an early spot-kick and were goalless at half-time even with controlling possession, finally breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
The goal arrived after Noussair Mazraoui did well to keep the ball in play before laying it across for Brahim Díaz to calmly pass into the net.
“The opening game is always difficult but we delivered in the second period,” said Morocco coach Walid Regragui.
El Kaabi's Moment of Brilliance
Any lingering nerves was subsequently extinguished by a piece of sheer genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes after coming on, the forward connected with a cross with a stunning bicycle kick in the 74th minute, making it two and ensuring the result.
Before that, the Moroccan team could have been the lead in the 11th minute when a penalty was awarded for a foul on Díaz. Yet, Rahimi's penalty was kept out by keeper Pandor.
Comoros Defiant Stand and Second-Half Chance
Comoros comfortably held Morocco at bay until the hosts' individual talent eventually told.
Goalkeeper Yannick Pandor pulled off a number of other fine saves to keep down the score as the match progressed, although Comoros created a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly following the first goal, with Saïd shooting directly into keeper Yassine Bounou.
Fitness Worry for Hosts
The three points was somewhat marred by an apparent injury to Morocco's captain, Saïss, who was forced off after the 18th minute in some distress.
The defender had just returned to the national side recently after a lengthy layoff caused by ankle surgery.
The win continues Morocco's record-breaking run of successive victories to nineteen, beating the old record of 15 set by the Spanish national team from 2008 and 2009.
