El Kaabi's Breathtaking Goal Wraps Up Morocco's Victory Over the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations Opener.
The the Moroccan side shook off a anxious start to beat their island opponents in the tournament's inaugural fixture on Sunday, thanks to Brahim Díaz and super-sub Ayoub El Kaabi in the latter period.
It was a hardly emphatic showing, however, from the highly fancied hosts, who sit 97 places higher than the tiny island nation in the FIFA rankings and had to toil hard for the points in rainy conditions at Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Tense Beginning and Missed Chances
The hosts failed to convert an early penalty and were goalless at the interval even with dominating possession, finally breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
The goal came when full-back Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before slipping it across for Brahim Díaz to sidefoot into the net.
Every opening game is always difficult but we came good in the second half,” commented manager Walid Regragui.
The Substitute's Piece of Magic
The tension was subsequently extinguished by a moment of sheer individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just ten minutes following his introduction, the striker connected with a cross with a stunning overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and ensuring the result.
Before that, the Moroccan team might have taken the lead in the 11th minute after a spot-kick was awarded for a challenge on Brahim Díaz. However, Rahimi's effort was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor.
The Visitors' Defiant Stand and Late Chance
The underdogs stoutly defended against Morocco for long periods before the hosts' individual talent in the end made the difference.
Goalkeeper Pandor made several other fine saves to keep down the score as the match wore on, although his team did have a chance for an equalizer shortly after the first goal, with Saïd firing directly into keeper Yassine Bounou.
Fitness Worry for Morocco
The victory was partially overshadowed by an injury to the captain, Saïss, who limped off after the first half in tears.
The centre-back had only returned to the national side recently following a lengthy layoff due to a serious ankle operation.
The win continues the team's historic run of successive victories to nineteen, surpassing the previous record of 15 set by the Spanish national team from 2008 and 2009.
