Ayoub El Kaabi's Spectacular Strike Wraps Up Morocco's Triumph Over the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations Opening Match.
The Morocco shook off a anxious start to beat Comoros in the tournament's opening game on the weekend, with goals from Brahim Díaz and super-sub El Kaabi in the second half.
This constituted a far from convincing showing, though, from the strongly favored Moroccans, who sit 97 places higher than the tiny Indian Ocean nation in the FIFA rankings and had to work tirelessly for the victory in wet conditions at Rabat's national stadium.
Nervy Start and Missed Opportunities
Morocco missed an early penalty and were locked at 0-0 at the interval even with dominating possession, finally opening the scoring in the 55th minute.
The goal arrived after Noussair Mazraoui showed great skill to keep the ball in play before laying it square for Díaz to calmly pass home.
Every first match is invariably tough but we came good in the second period,” commented manager Regragui.
The Substitute's Moment of Magic
The tension was subsequently calmed by a piece of pure individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Only 10 minutes after his introduction, the forward connected with a cross with a stunning bicycle kick in the 74th minute, doubling and ensuring the win.
Earlier in the match, the hosts might have taken the lead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was given for a foul on Díaz. However, Rahimi's effort was kept out by keeper Yannick Pandor.
Comoros Resistance and Late Opportunity
The underdogs comfortably held Morocco at bay until the hosts' greater quality eventually told.
Shot-stopper Pandor made several further good stops to limit the scoreline as the game progressed, even though his team did have a chance for an equaliser shortly after Díaz's goal, with Rafiki Saïd shooting straight at keeper Bounou.
Injury Concern for Morocco
The victory was somewhat overshadowed by an injury to Morocco's skipper, Romain Saïss, who limped off in the 18th minute in tears.
The defender had only returned to the international setup recently following a year’s layoff caused by ankle surgery.
This result extends Morocco's record-breaking run of consecutive victories to nineteen, surpassing the previous best of 15 set by the Spanish national team from 2008 and 2009.
