Ayoub El Kaabi's Spectacular Goal Wraps Up Morocco's Triumph Against the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations First Game.
The Morocco shook off a nervy start to beat their island opponents in the tournament's opening game on Sunday, thanks to the Real Madrid attacker and substitute Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
It was a hardly emphatic display, 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 victory in wet conditions at the national stadium.
Tense Beginning and Missed Chances
Morocco missed an first-half penalty and were locked at 0-0 at the interval even with controlling possession, eventually opening the scoring in the 55th minute.
It came when full-back Mazraoui showed great skill to keep the ball in play before laying it across for Díaz to calmly pass home.
Every first match is never easy but we improved in the second half,” said manager Regragui.
The Substitute's Piece of Brilliance
Any lingering nerves was then calmed by a piece of sheer genius from substitute El Kaabi. Only 10 minutes after coming on, the forward met a ball into the box with a stunning overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the result.
Earlier in the match, the hosts could have been ahead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was given for a foul on Brahim Díaz. Yet, Rahimi's penalty was kept out by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.
The Visitors' Defiant Stand and Second-Half Opportunity
Comoros stoutly defended against Morocco for long periods until the Moroccans' individual talent eventually made the difference.
Goalkeeper Yannick Pandor made several further fine saves to keep down the scoreline as the match wore on, even though his team created a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly after the first goal, with Saïd firing directly into Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.
Injury Worry for Morocco
The victory was somewhat marred by an injury to the skipper, Saïss, who limped off in the 18th minute apparently in tears.
This defender had just made his comeback to the national side last month following a year’s absence caused by ankle surgery.
The win extends Morocco's historic run of consecutive wins to 19, surpassing the old record of 15 set by the Spanish national team between 2008 and 2009.
