El Kaabi's Spectacular Goal Wraps Up The Atlas Lions' Triumph Over the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations Opening Match.
Host nation Morocco overcame a nervy beginning to beat their island opponents in the tournament's opening game on the weekend, thanks to Brahim Díaz and substitute Ayoub El Kaabi in the latter period.
It was a far from convincing display, though, from the highly fancied Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places higher than the small island nation in the world rankings and were forced to grind out for the victory in wet conditions at Rabat's national stadium.
Nervy Start and Spurned Opportunities
The hosts failed to convert an first-half spot-kick and were goalless at the interval despite dominating possession, finally breaking the deadlock in the 11th minute of the second half.
It arrived after full-back Mazraoui showed great skill to keep the ball in play before laying it across for Díaz to calmly pass home.
“The opening game is invariably tough but we came good in the second half,” commented Morocco coach Walid Regragui.
El Kaabi's Piece of Magic
Any lingering nerves was subsequently eased by a moment of pure individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just ten minutes following his introduction, the striker connected with a ball into the box with a stunning overhead kick in the 74th minute, doubling and sealing the result.
Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team could have been the lead in the 11th minute after a spot-kick was given for a challenge on Díaz. However, Soufiane Rahimi penalty was kept out by keeper Yannick Pandor.
Comoros Resistance and Late Chance
The underdogs comfortably held Morocco at bay before the hosts' individual talent eventually told.
Goalkeeper Pandor pulled off several further fine saves to keep down the scoreline as the game progressed, even though Comoros created a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly after Díaz's goal, with Rafiki Saïd firing directly into keeper Bounou.
Injury Worry for Hosts
The victory was somewhat marred by an apparent injury to the captain, Saïss, who limped off after the 18th minute in tears.
The defender had only returned to the international setup last month following a year’s layoff due to a serious ankle operation.
The win continues the team's record-breaking run of successive wins to nineteen, beating the previous best of 15 set by the Spanish national team from 2008 and 2009.
