El Kaabi's Spectacular Strike Secures The Atlas Lions' Win Against Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations First Game.
Host nation the Moroccan side shook off a anxious start to defeat their island opponents in the tournament's inaugural fixture on the weekend, with goals from Brahim Díaz and super-sub Ayoub El Kaabi in the latter period.
This constituted a far from convincing display, though, from the heavily tipped hosts, who sit 97 places above the small Indian Ocean nation in the FIFA rankings and had to work tirelessly for the points in wet conditions at Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Tense Beginning and Spurned Chances
The hosts missed an early spot-kick and were goalless at the interval even with controlling possession, finally breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
It arrived after full-back Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before slipping it square for Díaz to sidefoot into the net.
“The first match is always difficult but we improved in the second period,” commented Morocco coach Regragui.
El Kaabi's Piece of Brilliance
The tension was subsequently calmed by a piece of pure genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes following his introduction, the striker met a cross with a stunning overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the result.
Before that, the hosts could have been ahead in the 11th minute after a spot-kick was awarded for a challenge on Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi effort was kept out by keeper Pandor.
The Visitors' Resistance and Late Chance
Comoros comfortably held their more illustrious opponents at bay before the hosts' superior firepower in the end told.
Goalkeeper Yannick Pandor made a number of other fine saves to keep down the scoreline as the game wore on, although Comoros created a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly following Díaz's goal, with Saïd shooting directly into keeper Yassine Bounou.
Fitness Concern for Hosts
The victory was partially overshadowed by an apparent injury to the skipper, Saïss, who was forced off in the 18th minute apparently in tears.
The defender had only returned to the international setup last month following a year’s layoff due to ankle surgery.
This result extends the team's historic run of consecutive wins to nineteen, surpassing the previous best of 15 set by the Spanish national team between 2008 and 2009.
