El Kaabi's Spectacular Goal Wraps Up The Atlas Lions' Triumph Against the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations Opening Match.
Host nation the Moroccan side overcame a jittery beginning to overcome Comoros in the tournament's inaugural fixture on Sunday, after strikes by Brahim Díaz and super-sub El Kaabi in the second half.
This constituted a less than dominant display, however, from the strongly favored Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places higher than the small Indian Ocean nation in the world rankings and were forced to work tirelessly for the points in wet conditions at Rabat's national stadium.
Nervy Start and Missed Opportunities
The hosts missed an early spot-kick and were locked at 0-0 at half-time even with dominating possession, finally breaking the deadlock in the 11th minute of the second half.
The goal came when full-back Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before laying it square for Brahim Díaz to calmly pass home.
“The first match is invariably tough but we delivered in the second period,” commented Morocco coach Regragui.
The Substitute's Piece of Brilliance
Any lingering nerves was then eased by a piece of pure genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just ten minutes following coming on, the striker connected with a ball into the box with a spectacular 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 spot-kick was given for a challenge on Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi effort was kept out by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.
Comoros Resistance and Second-Half Chance
The underdogs comfortably held Morocco for long periods before the Moroccans' superior firepower eventually told.
Shot-stopper Pandor made a number of further fine saves to keep down the scoreline as the game progressed, even though his team created a chance for an equalizer shortly after Díaz's goal, with Saïd shooting straight at Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.
Injury Concern for Hosts
The victory was partially overshadowed by an injury to the captain, Saïss, who limped off in the 18th minute apparently in some distress.
The centre-back had only returned to the national side recently following a year’s absence caused by a serious ankle operation.
This result continues the team's historic run of successive victories to 19, surpassing the previous record of 15 set by the Spanish national team between 2008 and 2009.
