Ayoub El Kaabi's Spectacular Strike Secures Morocco's Win Against the Coelacanths in Afcon Opener.
Host nation Morocco overcame a jittery beginning to defeat Comoros in the competition's first match on Sunday, after strikes by Brahim Díaz and super-sub El Kaabi in the latter period.
This constituted a far from convincing performance, however, from the strongly favored hosts, who are ranked 97 places above the small Indian Ocean nation in the FIFA rankings and were forced to work tirelessly for the three points in rainy conditions at Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Tense Start and Spurned Opportunities
The hosts missed an first-half spot-kick and were goalless at half-time despite dominating the ball, finally breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
It arrived after full-back Mazraoui showed great skill to keep the ball in play before laying it across for Díaz to sidefoot home.
Every first match is never easy but we came good in the second period,” commented Morocco coach Regragui.
The Substitute's Piece of Magic
Any lingering nerves was subsequently extinguished by a piece of pure genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Only 10 minutes following coming on, the striker connected with a cross with a acrobatic bicycle kick in the 74th minute, doubling and ensuring the result.
Before that, the hosts could have been ahead in the 11th minute when a penalty was given for a foul on Brahim Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi effort was saved by keeper Pandor.
The Visitors' Resistance and Late Opportunity
The underdogs stoutly defended against Morocco for long periods before the hosts' greater quality eventually made the difference.
Goalkeeper Pandor made several further fine saves to limit the scoreline as the match wore on, although Comoros did have a chance for an equaliser shortly following the first goal, with Rafiki Saïd firing straight at keeper Yassine Bounou.
Injury Concern for Hosts
The three points was partially marred by an apparent injury to Morocco's skipper, Romain Saïss, who was forced off after the first half in tears.
The centre-back had just returned to the national side recently after a lengthy absence caused by a serious ankle operation.
The win continues Morocco's historic run of successive victories to 19, beating the old best of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.
