El Kaabi's Breathtaking Goal Caps The Atlas Lions' Win Against the Coelacanths in Afcon First Game.
Host nation Morocco shook off a jittery beginning to defeat their island opponents in the tournament's first match on the weekend, with goals from Brahim Díaz and substitute El Kaabi in the latter period.
This constituted a less than dominant display, however, from the strongly favored hosts, who sit 97 places above the small Indian Ocean nation in the world rankings and had to toil hard for the three points in wet conditions at Rabat's national stadium.
Tense Start and Spurned Chances
Morocco missed an early spot-kick and were locked at 0-0 at half-time despite controlling possession, eventually opening the scoring in the 55th minute.
The goal arrived after Noussair Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before laying it across for Díaz to sidefoot into the net.
“The first match is never easy but we improved in the second half,” said manager Regragui.
El Kaabi's Piece of Magic
Any lingering nerves was then extinguished by a piece of pure genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes after his introduction, the forward connected with a cross with a stunning bicycle kick in the 74th minute, doubling and ensuring the result.
Earlier in the match, the hosts might have taken the lead in the 11th minute when a penalty was awarded for a challenge on Díaz. Yet, Rahimi's effort was saved by keeper Yannick Pandor.
The Visitors' Defiant Stand and Second-Half Chance
Comoros stoutly defended against Morocco for long periods before the Moroccans' individual talent in the end made the difference.
Shot-stopper Pandor pulled off a number of further good stops to limit the score as the game progressed, although Comoros created a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly following Díaz's goal, with Rafiki Saïd firing straight at Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.
Fitness Worry for Morocco
The three points was somewhat marred by an injury to the skipper, Romain Saïss, who limped off after the 18th minute in some distress.
This defender had only returned to the international setup last month after a lengthy absence caused by a serious ankle operation.
This result extends Morocco's historic run of successive victories to nineteen, surpassing the old best of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.
