El Kaabi's Breathtaking Finish Caps Morocco's Win Against the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations Opening Match.
The the Moroccan side overcame a jittery start to overcome their island opponents in the competition's first match on Sunday, after strikes by Brahim Díaz and substitute Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
It was a far from convincing display, however, from the heavily tipped Moroccans, who sit 97 places higher than the small island nation in the world rankings and were forced to grind out for the three points in rainy conditions at Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Tense Beginning and Spurned Opportunities
Morocco missed an first-half spot-kick and were goalless at half-time despite controlling the ball, finally 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 across for Brahim Díaz to calmly pass home.
“The first match is always difficult but we came good in the second half,” commented manager Regragui.
El Kaabi's Piece of Magic
The tension was subsequently calmed by a moment of pure individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Only 10 minutes after coming on, the forward connected with a cross with a acrobatic bicycle kick in the 74th minute, doubling and ensuring the result.
Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team might have taken the lead in the 11th minute after a penalty was awarded for a foul on Brahim Díaz. However, Soufiane Rahimi penalty was kept out by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.
Comoros Defiant Stand and Second-Half Opportunity
Comoros stoutly defended against their more illustrious opponents at bay before the Moroccans' superior firepower eventually told.
Goalkeeper Yannick Pandor pulled off several other good stops to limit the scoreline as the game progressed, even though his team created a chance for an equalizer shortly following the first goal, with Saïd shooting straight at keeper Bounou.
Injury Worry for Hosts
The three points was partially overshadowed by an injury to Morocco's skipper, Saïss, who limped off after the 18th minute in some distress.
This defender had only made his comeback to the international setup recently following a lengthy absence caused by a serious ankle operation.
The win extends the team's record-breaking run of consecutive wins to nineteen, surpassing the previous best of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.
