Ayoub El Kaabi's Stunning Finish Caps Morocco's Triumph Against the Coelacanths in Afcon Opener.
The Morocco shook off a anxious start to overcome Comoros in the tournament's first match on Sunday, with goals from the Real Madrid attacker and substitute Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
It was a less than dominant display, though, from the heavily tipped hosts, who sit 97 places above the tiny Indian Ocean nation in the FIFA rankings and were forced to work tirelessly for the victory in wet conditions at Rabat's national stadium.
Tense Beginning and Spurned Chances
The hosts failed to convert an first-half penalty 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 slipping it square for Brahim Díaz to calmly pass into the net.
“The first match is invariably tough but we improved in the second period,” said manager Walid Regragui.
El Kaabi's Moment of Brilliance
The tension was then calmed by a piece of sheer genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes after his introduction, the striker connected with a cross with a stunning overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and ensuring the win.
Earlier in the match, the hosts could have been ahead in the 11th minute when a penalty was given for a foul on Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi effort was kept out by keeper Pandor.
The Visitors' Defiant Stand and Late Opportunity
The underdogs comfortably held their more illustrious opponents for long periods before the hosts' individual talent eventually told.
Goalkeeper Pandor made several further good stops to limit the score as the game progressed, even though his team did have a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly following Díaz's goal, with Saïd shooting straight at keeper Yassine Bounou.
Injury Concern for Hosts
The victory was partially overshadowed by an apparent injury to Morocco's captain, Saïss, who was forced off after the first half apparently in some distress.
The centre-back had just returned to the international setup recently following a year’s absence due to a serious ankle operation.
The win extends Morocco's record-breaking run of consecutive victories to 19, surpassing the old record of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.
