Ayoub El Kaabi's Spectacular Strike Caps Morocco's Win Against the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations First Game.
The the Moroccan side shook off a anxious start to overcome Comoros in the tournament's first match on Sunday, thanks to the Real Madrid attacker and substitute Ayoub El Kaabi in the latter period.
It was a less than dominant display, however, from the highly fancied Moroccans, who sit 97 places above the tiny Indian Ocean nation in the FIFA rankings and had to work tirelessly for the points in rainy conditions at Rabat's national stadium.
Nervy Start and Missed Chances
Morocco missed an first-half penalty and were goalless at half-time despite dominating possession, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
The goal came when Noussair Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before slipping it square for Díaz to sidefoot into the net.
Every first match is always difficult but we came good in the second period,” commented manager Regragui.
The Substitute's Piece of Brilliance
Any lingering nerves was subsequently eased by a piece of sheer genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just ten minutes after his introduction, the forward connected with a cross with a stunning overhead kick in the 74th minute, doubling and sealing the win.
Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team might have taken ahead in the 11th minute after a penalty was given for a challenge on Brahim Díaz. However, Soufiane Rahimi effort was kept out by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.
Comoros Defiant Stand and Late Opportunity
The underdogs comfortably held Morocco for long periods before the Moroccans' individual talent in the end made the difference.
Shot-stopper Yannick Pandor pulled off a number of other good stops to keep down the score as the match progressed, even though Comoros created a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly after the first goal, with Rafiki Saïd firing straight at keeper Yassine Bounou.
Fitness Concern for Hosts
The victory was partially marred by an apparent injury to the skipper, Romain Saïss, who was forced off in the first half apparently in tears.
This centre-back had just made his comeback to the national side last month following a year’s layoff due to a serious ankle operation.
This result continues Morocco's record-breaking run of consecutive victories to 19, beating the old record of 15 set by the Spanish national team between 2008 and 2009.
