El Kaabi's Breathtaking Finish Secures The Atlas Lions' Triumph Over Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations First Game.
Host nation Morocco overcame a jittery start to beat their island opponents in the competition's opening game on the weekend, thanks to Brahim Díaz and substitute El Kaabi in the second half.
It was a far from convincing showing, however, from the strongly favored hosts, who sit 97 places higher than the tiny island nation in the FIFA rankings and had to work tirelessly for the points in rainy conditions at the Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Nervy Start and Missed Opportunities
The hosts missed an early spot-kick and were locked at 0-0 at half-time despite dominating possession, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
The goal came when Noussair Mazraoui showed great skill to prevent the ball from going out before laying it square for Díaz to sidefoot home.
“The first match is always difficult but we came good in the second period,” said Morocco coach Regragui.
El Kaabi's Piece of Brilliance
The tension was then eased by a moment of sheer individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just ten minutes following coming on, the forward connected with a ball into the box with a stunning bicycle kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the result.
Before that, the Moroccan team could have been the lead in the 11th minute after a penalty was given for a challenge on Díaz. However, Soufiane Rahimi penalty was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor.
The Visitors' Resistance and Second-Half Chance
The underdogs comfortably held Morocco at bay before the hosts' superior firepower eventually told.
Shot-stopper Pandor made a number of other fine saves to limit the score as the game wore on, although his team did have a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly after the first goal, with Rafiki Saïd firing directly into Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.
Injury Worry for Hosts
The three points was somewhat overshadowed by an apparent injury to the captain, Saïss, who was forced off after the first half apparently in tears.
This centre-back had only made his comeback to the international setup recently after a lengthy absence due to ankle surgery.
This result continues Morocco's record-breaking run of consecutive victories to 19, beating the old best of 15 set by the Spanish national team between 2008 and 2009.
