El Kaabi's Stunning Finish Secures The Atlas Lions' Victory Over the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations Opening Match.
Host nation the Moroccan side shook off a nervy beginning to defeat Comoros in the tournament's inaugural fixture on the weekend, thanks to the Real Madrid attacker and super-sub Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
It was a far from convincing showing, though, from the highly fancied Moroccans, who are ranked 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 Spurned Opportunities
The hosts failed to convert an first-half spot-kick and were goalless at half-time despite controlling possession, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
The goal came when Noussair Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before slipping it square for Díaz to calmly pass home.
“The opening game is always difficult but we improved in the second half,” said manager Walid Regragui.
The Substitute's Piece of Magic
Any lingering nerves was then extinguished by a piece of pure individual brilliance from substitute El Kaabi. Just ten minutes after coming on, the striker met a cross with a stunning bicycle kick in the 74th minute, doubling and sealing the result.
Earlier in the match, the hosts could have been ahead in the 11th minute after a spot-kick was given for a challenge on Brahim Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi penalty was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.
The Visitors' Defiant Stand and Late Chance
Comoros stoutly defended against their more illustrious opponents at bay until the Moroccans' individual talent eventually made the difference.
Goalkeeper Yannick Pandor made several other good stops to limit the score as the game progressed, even though his team created a chance for an equaliser shortly following the first goal, with Saïd firing straight at Morocco goalkeeper Bounou.
Fitness Concern for Morocco
The victory was partially overshadowed by an injury to Morocco's skipper, Saïss, who limped off in the 18th minute in some distress.
This centre-back had just returned to the national side last month following a lengthy layoff due to a serious ankle operation.
This result extends the team's record-breaking run of consecutive victories to 19, beating the previous record of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.
