Ayoub El Kaabi's Stunning Finish Secures The Atlas Lions' Win Against Comoros in Afcon Opening Match.
The Morocco shook off a anxious start to beat Comoros in the competition's first match on the weekend, with goals from Brahim Díaz and super-sub El Kaabi in the second half.
This constituted a far from convincing showing, though, from the heavily tipped hosts, who are ranked 97 places above the tiny Indian Ocean nation in the world rankings and had to grind out for the points in rainy conditions at Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Tense Beginning and Spurned Chances
Morocco missed an first-half spot-kick and were goalless at the interval despite dominating the ball, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
It came when Noussair Mazraoui showed great skill to prevent the ball from going out before laying it square for Díaz to calmly pass home.
Every opening game is never easy but we improved in the second half,” commented Morocco coach Walid Regragui.
El Kaabi's Piece of Brilliance
The tension was then extinguished by a piece of pure genius from substitute El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes after his introduction, the forward connected with a cross with a stunning bicycle kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the win.
Before that, the hosts could have been the lead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was given for a challenge on Brahim Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi effort was kept out by keeper Pandor.
Comoros Resistance and Second-Half Opportunity
Comoros comfortably held their more illustrious opponents at bay before the hosts' superior firepower in the end made the difference.
Shot-stopper Yannick Pandor made a number of other fine saves to limit the scoreline as the game wore on, even though Comoros did have a chance for an equaliser shortly following the first goal, with Rafiki Saïd shooting directly into Morocco goalkeeper Bounou.
Fitness Concern for Morocco
The victory was partially overshadowed by an injury to Morocco's skipper, Saïss, who was forced off after the first half apparently in some distress.
This defender had only made his comeback to the international setup last month following a year’s layoff caused by ankle surgery.
This result continues Morocco's historic run of consecutive victories to nineteen, surpassing the old best of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.
