Ayoub El Kaabi's Stunning Strike Secures The Atlas Lions' Win Against Comoros in Afcon Opener.
The the Moroccan side shook off a jittery beginning to defeat their island opponents in the tournament's first match on Sunday, with goals from Brahim Díaz and substitute El Kaabi in the latter period.
This constituted a less than dominant performance, though, from the heavily tipped hosts, who sit 97 places higher than the tiny Indian Ocean nation in the world rankings and had to work tirelessly for the points in wet conditions at Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Tense Beginning and Spurned 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.
It came when full-back Mazraoui showed great skill to keep the ball in play before laying it across for Brahim Díaz to calmly pass into the net.
Every opening game is always difficult but we came good in the second half,” commented Morocco coach Regragui.
El Kaabi's Moment of Brilliance
The tension was then calmed by a moment of pure individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Only 10 minutes after coming on, the forward met a ball into the box with a spectacular bicycle kick in the 74th minute, making it two and ensuring the result.
Earlier in the match, the hosts might have taken ahead in the 11th minute after a spot-kick was awarded for a foul on Brahim Díaz. Yet, Rahimi's effort was kept out by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor.
The Visitors' Defiant Stand and Second-Half Opportunity
The underdogs comfortably held Morocco for long periods before the Moroccans' individual talent eventually told.
Goalkeeper Yannick Pandor made several other fine saves to limit the scoreline as the game progressed, although Comoros created a chance for an equaliser shortly after the first goal, with Rafiki Saïd firing straight at Morocco goalkeeper Bounou.
Fitness Worry for Morocco
The three points was partially marred by an apparent injury to the skipper, Romain Saïss, who limped off after the 18th minute apparently in tears.
This centre-back had just returned to the national side last month after a lengthy layoff caused by a serious ankle operation.
The win extends the team's historic run of consecutive wins to 19, beating the previous record of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.
