Ayoub El Kaabi's Spectacular Finish Caps The Atlas Lions' Win Against the Coelacanths in Afcon Opening Match.
Host nation the Moroccan side shook off a anxious start to beat Comoros in the competition's first match on Sunday, thanks to Brahim Díaz and super-sub El Kaabi in the latter period.
It was a far from convincing display, however, from the strongly favored Moroccans, who sit 97 places above the tiny island nation in the world rankings and had to toil hard for the victory in rainy conditions at Rabat's national stadium.
Nervy Beginning and Missed Chances
The hosts failed to convert an first-half spot-kick and were locked at 0-0 at half-time despite dominating possession, finally breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
The goal came when full-back Mazraoui showed great skill to keep the ball in play before laying it across for Díaz to calmly pass into the net.
Every first match is always difficult but we came good in the second period,” commented Morocco coach Walid Regragui.
El Kaabi's Moment of Magic
The tension was then calmed by a moment of pure individual brilliance from substitute El Kaabi. Only ten minutes after coming on, the striker connected with a cross with a spectacular bicycle kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the win.
Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team could have been the lead in the 11th minute after a spot-kick was given for a challenge on Brahim Díaz. Yet, Rahimi's effort was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.
The Visitors' Defiant Stand and Second-Half Chance
Comoros comfortably held their more illustrious opponents at bay before the hosts' greater quality in the end made the difference.
Goalkeeper Yannick Pandor pulled off several 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 Rafiki Saïd firing straight at Morocco goalkeeper Bounou.
Injury Concern for Morocco
The victory was somewhat marred by an apparent injury to the captain, Romain Saïss, who was forced off after the 18th minute apparently in some distress.
The defender had only made his comeback to the national side last month following a year’s layoff due to ankle surgery.
The win extends the team's historic run of consecutive victories to 19, surpassing the previous record of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.
