Ayoub El Kaabi's Stunning Finish Caps The Atlas Lions' Win Against Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations Opener.
The the Moroccan side shook off a anxious beginning to beat Comoros in the competition's first match on Sunday, with goals from Brahim Díaz and substitute Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
It was a far from convincing display, though, from the heavily tipped hosts, who are ranked 97 places above the tiny island nation in the world rankings and had to grind out for the three points in wet conditions at Rabat's national stadium.
Nervy Beginning and Missed Opportunities
The hosts failed to convert an early spot-kick and were goalless at the interval even with dominating the ball, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
It arrived after Noussair Mazraoui did well to keep the ball in play before laying it square for Díaz to calmly pass into the net.
“The opening game is invariably tough but we came good in the second half,” said Morocco coach Walid Regragui.
The Substitute's Piece of Brilliance
Any lingering nerves was subsequently calmed by a moment of sheer genius from substitute El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes after his introduction, the striker met a ball into the box with a stunning overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the win.
Earlier in the match, the hosts could have been the lead in the 11th minute when a penalty was awarded for a challenge on Díaz. However, Rahimi's effort was kept out by keeper Yannick Pandor.
The Visitors' Defiant Stand and Second-Half Chance
The underdogs stoutly defended against their more illustrious opponents for long periods until the hosts' individual talent in the end made the difference.
Shot-stopper Pandor made several further good stops to limit the score as the game wore on, even though his team created a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly after Díaz's goal, with Rafiki Saïd shooting straight at keeper Bounou.
Injury Worry for Morocco
The three points was somewhat overshadowed by an injury to the captain, Saïss, who was forced off in the first half apparently in some distress.
This centre-back had just made his comeback to the national side last month after a year’s absence due to ankle surgery.
The win extends the team's historic run of consecutive wins to 19, beating the previous best of 15 set by the Spanish national team between 2008 and 2009.
