Ayoub El Kaabi's Spectacular Strike Wraps Up The Atlas Lions' Victory Against the Coelacanths in Afcon Opener.
The the Moroccan side shook off a anxious start to overcome their island opponents in the competition's opening game on Sunday, after strikes by the Real Madrid attacker and super-sub Ayoub El Kaabi in the latter period.
This constituted a far from convincing performance, though, from the strongly favored Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places higher than the small Indian Ocean nation in the FIFA rankings and had to grind out for the points in rainy conditions at Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Nervy Beginning and Missed Chances
Morocco missed an early spot-kick and were goalless at the interval despite controlling the ball, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
It arrived after Noussair Mazraoui did well to keep the ball in play before slipping it across for Brahim Díaz to calmly pass into the net.
“The first match is always difficult but we came good in the second period,” commented manager Regragui.
The Substitute's Moment of Brilliance
The tension was then calmed by a piece of sheer genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Only ten minutes following his introduction, the forward connected with a ball into the box with a stunning overhead kick in the 74th minute, doubling and sealing the win.
Earlier in the match, the hosts might have taken ahead in the 11th minute after a spot-kick was given for a challenge on Brahim Díaz. Yet, Rahimi's penalty was kept out by keeper Yannick Pandor.
The Visitors' Resistance and Late Opportunity
Comoros comfortably held Morocco for long periods until the Moroccans' individual talent in the end made the difference.
Shot-stopper Yannick Pandor made a number of further good stops to limit the score as the match progressed, even though his team did have a chance for an equaliser shortly after Díaz's goal, with Saïd shooting straight at keeper Bounou.
Fitness Concern for Morocco
The three points was partially marred by an injury to the captain, Romain Saïss, who was forced off after the first half in tears.
The centre-back had just made his comeback to the national side recently after a year’s absence caused by a serious ankle operation.
This result extends Morocco's record-breaking run of successive wins to 19, surpassing the previous record of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.
