Ayoub El Kaabi's Breathtaking Finish Wraps Up The Atlas Lions' Triumph Over the Coelacanths in Afcon Opening Match.
The the Moroccan side shook off a anxious beginning to defeat Comoros in the tournament's opening game on the weekend, with goals from Brahim Díaz and super-sub Ayoub El Kaabi in the latter period.
This constituted a hardly emphatic performance, though, from the heavily tipped hosts, who are ranked 97 places above the tiny island nation in the FIFA rankings and were forced to work tirelessly for the victory in rainy conditions at Rabat's national stadium.
Nervy Start and Missed Opportunities
The hosts missed an early spot-kick and were goalless at half-time despite dominating possession, finally breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
It came when full-back Mazraoui showed great skill to keep the ball in play before slipping it across for Brahim Díaz to sidefoot into the net.
Every opening game is always difficult but we came good in the second half,” said Morocco coach Regragui.
The Substitute's Moment of Magic
The tension was then calmed by a moment of pure individual brilliance from substitute El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes following his introduction, the striker met a ball into the box with a spectacular bicycle kick in the 74th minute, making it two and ensuring the result.
Earlier in the match, the hosts could have been the lead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was awarded for a challenge on Brahim Díaz. However, Soufiane Rahimi penalty was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor.
The Visitors' Defiant Stand and Late Opportunity
Comoros comfortably held Morocco for long periods before the hosts' greater quality eventually made the difference.
Shot-stopper Pandor pulled off several further fine saves to limit the scoreline as the game wore on, although his team did have a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly following Díaz's goal, with Saïd firing directly into keeper Bounou.
Injury Worry for Morocco
The victory was somewhat marred by an apparent injury to Morocco's skipper, Saïss, who limped off in the first half in some distress.
The defender had only made his comeback to the national side last month following a lengthy absence caused by ankle surgery.
The win continues Morocco's record-breaking run of consecutive victories to 19, surpassing the old record of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.
