Ayoub El Kaabi's Stunning Strike Secures The Atlas Lions' Win Against Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations First Game.
Host nation Morocco shook off a jittery start to overcome their island opponents in the competition's first match on the weekend, thanks to Brahim Díaz and super-sub Ayoub El Kaabi in the latter period.
It was a hardly emphatic showing, though, from the heavily tipped Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places above the tiny Indian Ocean nation in the FIFA rankings and had to toil hard for the victory in wet conditions at Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Nervy Beginning and Spurned Chances
The hosts failed to convert an early spot-kick and were locked at 0-0 at half-time despite controlling the ball, eventually opening the scoring in the 11th minute of the second half.
It arrived after Noussair Mazraoui showed great skill to prevent the ball from going out before slipping it across for Díaz to sidefoot into the net.
Every first match is always difficult but we came good in the second period,” said Morocco coach Regragui.
The Substitute's Moment of Brilliance
Any lingering nerves was subsequently calmed by a piece of sheer genius from substitute El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes following his introduction, the forward connected with a cross with a acrobatic overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the result.
Earlier in the match, the hosts could have been ahead in the 11th minute after a penalty was awarded for a foul on Brahim Díaz. However, Rahimi's effort was saved by keeper Yannick Pandor.
The Visitors' Defiant Stand and Second-Half Chance
Comoros comfortably held Morocco at bay before the hosts' individual talent eventually told.
Shot-stopper Pandor made a number of other fine saves to limit the scoreline as the match progressed, even though his team did have a chance for an equaliser shortly following Díaz's goal, with Saïd shooting directly into Morocco goalkeeper Bounou.
Injury Concern for Morocco
The victory was partially marred by an apparent injury to Morocco's captain, Romain Saïss, who limped off after the 18th minute in tears.
This defender had just returned to the national side recently following a lengthy layoff due to a serious ankle operation.
This result extends Morocco's historic run of consecutive wins to 19, beating the previous best of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.
