Ayoub El Kaabi's Spectacular Finish Wraps Up Morocco's Win Over the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations First Game.
The the Moroccan side shook off a nervy beginning to beat Comoros in the competition's first match on Sunday, thanks to the Real Madrid attacker and super-sub El Kaabi in the second half.
This constituted a far from convincing display, however, from the strongly favored 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 Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Tense Beginning and Spurned Chances
The hosts missed an early spot-kick and were goalless at half-time despite controlling the ball, eventually opening the scoring in the 55th minute.
It came when Noussair Mazraoui showed great skill to prevent the ball from going out before laying it across for Brahim Díaz to calmly pass into the net.
Every first match is invariably tough but we improved in the second period,” commented Morocco coach Regragui.
The Substitute's Moment of Brilliance
The tension was subsequently eased by a piece of sheer genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just ten minutes following his introduction, the striker connected with a cross with a spectacular bicycle kick in the 74th minute, doubling and ensuring the win.
Before that, the hosts could have been the lead in the 11th minute after a penalty was given for a foul on Díaz. However, Soufiane Rahimi penalty was kept out by keeper Pandor.
The Visitors' Resistance and Second-Half Opportunity
Comoros comfortably held their more illustrious opponents for long periods before the Moroccans' greater quality in the end told.
Shot-stopper Pandor made a number of further good stops to keep down the scoreline as the match progressed, even though Comoros created a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly after Díaz's goal, with Saïd firing straight at keeper Yassine Bounou.
Fitness Worry for Morocco
The victory was partially marred by an apparent injury to Morocco's captain, Romain Saïss, who limped off in the 18th minute in some distress.
This defender had just returned to the international setup recently after a year’s layoff due to ankle surgery.
This result continues Morocco's record-breaking run of successive wins to nineteen, surpassing the previous record of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.
