Ayoub El Kaabi's Spectacular Finish Secures Morocco's Triumph Over the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations Opening Match.
The the Moroccan side shook off a jittery start to beat Comoros in the competition's opening game on the weekend, with goals from Brahim Díaz and super-sub Ayoub El Kaabi in the latter period.
This constituted a far from convincing performance, however, from the heavily tipped Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places above the tiny Indian Ocean nation in the world rankings and had to work tirelessly for the points in wet conditions at the Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Nervy Beginning and Missed Chances
The hosts failed to convert an early spot-kick and were goalless at the interval even with controlling possession, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 11th minute of the second half.
The goal arrived after full-back Mazraoui showed great skill to prevent the ball from going out before slipping it across for Brahim Díaz to sidefoot into the net.
“The first match is never easy but we came good in the second half,” said Morocco coach Walid Regragui.
El Kaabi's Piece of Brilliance
The tension was then extinguished by a moment of pure genius from substitute El Kaabi. Only ten minutes after his introduction, the striker connected with a cross with a acrobatic 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 after a penalty was given for a challenge on Brahim Díaz. Yet, Rahimi's penalty was kept out by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor.
Comoros Defiant Stand and Second-Half Chance
Comoros stoutly defended against Morocco at bay before the Moroccans' individual talent eventually made the difference.
Goalkeeper Pandor made a number of further fine saves to keep down the scoreline as the game wore on, even though his team did have a chance for an equalizer shortly following the first goal, with Rafiki Saïd shooting straight at Morocco goalkeeper Bounou.
Injury Concern for Hosts
The three points was somewhat overshadowed by an injury to Morocco's skipper, Saïss, who limped off in the first half in tears.
The defender had just made his comeback to the national side recently following a lengthy layoff caused by ankle surgery.
The win extends Morocco's historic run of consecutive wins to 19, surpassing the previous record of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.
