El Kaabi's Spectacular Goal Caps Morocco's Win Over the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations Opener.
Host nation the Moroccan side shook off a jittery start to beat their island opponents in the tournament's opening game on Sunday, after strikes by Brahim Díaz and substitute Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
This constituted a far from convincing showing, though, from the strongly favored hosts, who sit 97 places above the small island nation in the FIFA rankings and had to work tirelessly for the victory in wet conditions at the Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Nervy Start and Missed Opportunities
Morocco failed to convert an early spot-kick and were goalless at the interval even with controlling possession, finally opening the scoring in the 55th minute.
The goal arrived after full-back Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before laying it across for Brahim Díaz to sidefoot home.
Every first match is invariably tough but we came good in the second period,” commented manager Regragui.
The Substitute's Moment of Brilliance
Any lingering nerves was then eased by a moment of sheer genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes after his introduction, the striker met a ball into the box with a acrobatic overhead kick in the 74th minute, doubling and ensuring the result.
Before that, the Moroccan team might have taken the lead in the 11th minute after a penalty was given for a foul on Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi penalty was kept out by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.
Comoros Defiant Stand and Late Chance
The underdogs stoutly defended against their more illustrious opponents for long periods before the Moroccans' superior firepower eventually made the difference.
Shot-stopper Pandor made several further fine saves to limit the scoreline as the game progressed, even though Comoros created a chance for an equaliser shortly following Díaz's goal, with Saïd shooting straight at keeper Yassine Bounou.
Fitness Worry for Hosts
The three points was somewhat marred by an injury to the captain, Romain Saïss, who limped off after the 18th minute in tears.
The defender had just made his comeback to the national side last month following a year’s absence due to a serious ankle operation.
This result extends the team's historic run of consecutive victories to 19, surpassing the previous best of 15 set by the Spanish national team between 2008 and 2009.
