Ayoub El Kaabi's Breathtaking Goal Secures The Atlas Lions' Triumph Against Comoros in Afcon Opening Match.
The the Moroccan side overcame a nervy start to overcome Comoros in the tournament's first match on Sunday, after strikes by Brahim Díaz and super-sub El Kaabi in the latter period.
It was a less than dominant showing, however, from the highly fancied hosts, who sit 97 places higher than the small Indian Ocean nation in the world rankings and had to work tirelessly for the points in wet conditions at the national stadium.
Tense Start and Missed Opportunities
Morocco missed an early spot-kick and were goalless at the interval despite controlling possession, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 11th minute of the second half.
The goal came when full-back Mazraoui did well to keep the ball in play before slipping it across for Díaz to sidefoot home.
“The first match is always difficult but we came good in the second period,” commented manager Walid Regragui.
The Substitute's Moment of Brilliance
Any lingering nerves was subsequently calmed by a piece of sheer individual brilliance from substitute El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes after his introduction, the forward met a cross with a stunning overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and ensuring the win.
Earlier in the match, the hosts could have been ahead in the 11th minute after a spot-kick was awarded for a challenge on Brahim Díaz. However, Rahimi's penalty was saved by keeper Pandor.
The Visitors' Defiant Stand and Late Chance
Comoros comfortably held Morocco for long periods before the hosts' individual talent in the end made the difference.
Shot-stopper Pandor made several further fine saves to keep down the scoreline as the game progressed, although Comoros created a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly following Díaz's goal, with Saïd firing directly into keeper Yassine Bounou.
Injury Worry for Morocco
The victory was partially overshadowed by an injury to Morocco's skipper, Romain Saïss, who limped off in the first half in some distress.
This centre-back had just made his comeback to the international setup last month following a year’s layoff caused by a serious ankle operation.
The win extends the team's record-breaking run of consecutive wins to 19, surpassing the old record of 15 set by the Spanish national team from 2008 and 2009.
