Ayoub El Kaabi's Spectacular Finish Caps The Atlas Lions' Victory Against Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations Opener.
The the Moroccan side overcame a nervy beginning to defeat their island opponents 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 performance, however, from the highly fancied Moroccans, who sit 97 places higher than the tiny island nation in the world rankings and were forced to grind out for the points in wet conditions at Rabat's national stadium.
Tense Start and Missed Opportunities
Morocco missed an early penalty and were goalless at half-time despite controlling the ball, eventually opening the scoring in the 55th minute.
It arrived after full-back Mazraoui showed great skill to prevent the ball from going out before slipping it across for Brahim Díaz to sidefoot home.
“The first match is always difficult but we delivered in the second half,” commented Morocco coach Walid Regragui.
The Substitute's Moment of Magic
Any lingering nerves was then eased by a moment of sheer individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes after his introduction, the forward met a cross with a spectacular overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the result.
Before that, the hosts could have been the lead in the 11th minute after a penalty was awarded for a challenge on Brahim Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi effort was kept out by keeper Pandor.
The Visitors' Resistance and Late Opportunity
Comoros stoutly defended against Morocco at bay until the hosts' superior firepower in the end made the difference.
Shot-stopper Pandor made a number of further good stops to limit the score as the match wore on, although his team created a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly after the first goal, with Saïd shooting straight at Morocco goalkeeper Bounou.
Injury Worry for Morocco
The three points was somewhat overshadowed by an apparent injury to Morocco's skipper, Saïss, who was forced off in the first half in tears.
This defender had just returned to the international setup last month following a year’s layoff caused by ankle surgery.
The win extends Morocco's historic run of consecutive wins to nineteen, surpassing the previous best of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.
