Ayoub El Kaabi's Stunning Strike Secures Morocco's Triumph Over Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations First Game.
Host nation the Moroccan side overcame a anxious beginning to overcome Comoros in the competition's opening game on the weekend, after strikes by Brahim Díaz and substitute Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
It was a far from convincing display, however, from the highly fancied hosts, who sit 97 places higher than the small island nation in the world rankings and were forced to work tirelessly for the victory in wet conditions at Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Tense Beginning and Missed Chances
The hosts failed to convert an early penalty and were goalless at the interval despite controlling possession, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 11th minute of the second half.
The goal came when Noussair Mazraoui showed great skill to keep the ball in play before slipping it across for Díaz to calmly pass into the net.
Every first match is invariably tough but we improved in the second half,” said manager Walid Regragui.
El Kaabi's Piece of Brilliance
Any lingering nerves was subsequently eased by a moment of sheer individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes after coming on, the striker met a ball into the box with a acrobatic 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 given for a challenge on Brahim Díaz. Yet, Rahimi's effort was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.
The Visitors' Resistance and Second-Half Chance
The underdogs comfortably held Morocco for long periods until the hosts' superior firepower in the end made the difference.
Goalkeeper Yannick Pandor pulled off several further fine saves to keep down the scoreline as the match progressed, even though Comoros created a chance for an equalizer shortly after Díaz's goal, with Saïd firing straight at Morocco goalkeeper Bounou.
Fitness Concern for Morocco
The victory was partially marred by an injury to the captain, Saïss, who limped off in the 18th minute in some distress.
This defender had just returned to the national side last month following a year’s layoff caused by ankle surgery.
The win continues the team's historic run of successive victories to nineteen, beating the previous best of 15 set by the Spanish national team between 2008 and 2009.
