El Kaabi's Stunning Strike Secures Morocco's Triumph Against the Coelacanths in Afcon Opening Match.
The Morocco shook off a nervy beginning to overcome their island opponents in the competition's inaugural fixture on Sunday, with goals from Brahim Díaz and super-sub El Kaabi in the second half.
This constituted a far from convincing display, though, from the highly fancied hosts, who are ranked 97 places higher than 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 Beginning and Spurned Chances
The hosts missed an early spot-kick and were locked at 0-0 at half-time even with controlling possession, eventually opening the scoring in the 55th minute.
It came when full-back Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before laying it square for Brahim Díaz to sidefoot into the net.
“The first match is always difficult but we improved in the second half,” commented Morocco coach Walid Regragui.
The Substitute's Piece of Brilliance
Any lingering nerves was subsequently extinguished by a piece of sheer individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Only ten minutes following his introduction, the striker met a cross with a spectacular overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and ensuring the result.
Before that, the hosts might have taken the lead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was given for a foul on Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi effort was kept out by keeper Yannick Pandor.
Comoros Defiant Stand and Second-Half Chance
Comoros stoutly defended against Morocco for long periods before the hosts' greater quality eventually told.
Shot-stopper Yannick Pandor pulled off several further fine saves to keep down the scoreline as the match wore on, although Comoros created a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly following Díaz's goal, with Rafiki Saïd firing straight at keeper Yassine Bounou.
Injury Concern for Hosts
The victory was somewhat overshadowed by an apparent injury to Morocco's captain, Saïss, who was forced off in the 18th minute in tears.
The defender had just returned to the international setup last month after a lengthy absence due to a serious ankle operation.
This result extends Morocco's record-breaking run of consecutive victories to 19, surpassing the old record of 15 set by the Spanish national team from 2008 and 2009.
