El Kaabi's Stunning Finish Wraps Up The Atlas Lions' Win Against Comoros in Afcon First Game.
Host nation Morocco overcame a anxious start to beat Comoros in the tournament's first match on Sunday, after strikes by Brahim Díaz and substitute Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
It was a far from convincing performance, however, from the highly fancied hosts, who are ranked 97 places higher than the tiny island nation in the FIFA rankings and were forced to toil hard for the victory in rainy conditions at the national stadium.
Tense Beginning and Spurned Chances
Morocco missed an first-half spot-kick and were goalless at half-time even with dominating possession, finally breaking the deadlock in the 11th minute of the second half.
The goal arrived after Noussair Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before laying it square for Brahim Díaz to sidefoot home.
Every first match is always difficult but we came good in the second half,” commented manager Regragui.
El Kaabi's Moment of Magic
The tension was then eased by a moment of pure genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Only ten minutes following coming on, the forward met a ball into the box with a spectacular bicycle kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the result.
Before that, the hosts might have taken ahead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was awarded for a foul on Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi penalty was kept out by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor.
The Visitors' Defiant Stand and Second-Half Chance
The underdogs stoutly defended against their more illustrious opponents at bay before the hosts' individual talent eventually made the difference.
Goalkeeper Pandor pulled off a number of other fine saves to limit the score as the match wore on, although Comoros did have a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly following Díaz's goal, with Rafiki Saïd firing straight at keeper Yassine Bounou.
Fitness Worry for Hosts
The three points was partially overshadowed by an apparent injury to the skipper, Romain Saïss, who limped off after the 18th minute in tears.
The centre-back had just made his comeback to the international setup recently after a lengthy layoff caused by a serious ankle operation.
This result continues Morocco's historic run of successive victories to nineteen, surpassing the previous best of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.
