El Kaabi's Spectacular Goal Secures Morocco's Triumph Over the Coelacanths in Afcon Opener.
Host nation Morocco overcame a nervy beginning to defeat their island opponents in the competition's first match on the weekend, after strikes by the Real Madrid attacker and substitute Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
It was a far from convincing showing, though, from the highly fancied Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places higher than the tiny island nation in the FIFA rankings and were forced to work tirelessly for the points in rainy conditions at Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Tense Beginning and Spurned Chances
The hosts missed an early penalty and were goalless at half-time even with controlling the ball, finally opening the scoring in the 55th minute.
The goal came when full-back Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before slipping it across for Brahim Díaz to sidefoot home.
“The opening game is always difficult but we delivered in the second period,” said manager Regragui.
El Kaabi's Piece of Brilliance
The tension was subsequently calmed by a piece of sheer individual brilliance from substitute El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes following his introduction, the forward connected with a ball into the box with a stunning bicycle kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the win.
Before that, the hosts could have been the lead in the 11th minute after a penalty was awarded for a challenge on Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi effort was kept out by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.
Comoros Defiant Stand and Late Opportunity
Comoros comfortably held their more illustrious opponents at bay before the hosts' individual talent eventually made the difference.
Goalkeeper Pandor made several further good stops to limit the score as the game progressed, even though Comoros created a chance for an equaliser shortly after Díaz's goal, with Saïd shooting directly into Morocco goalkeeper Bounou.
Fitness Concern for Hosts
The three points was somewhat marred by an apparent injury to the skipper, Saïss, who limped off after the first half in some distress.
This defender had just made his comeback to the international setup recently after a lengthy layoff caused by a serious ankle operation.
The win continues Morocco's historic run of consecutive wins to nineteen, beating the previous best of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.
