El Kaabi's Stunning Goal Secures Morocco's Victory Against the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations First Game.
The Morocco overcame a anxious start to overcome their island opponents in the competition's opening game on the weekend, with goals from the Real Madrid attacker and substitute Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
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 had to toil hard for the points in rainy conditions at the Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Nervy Start and Missed Opportunities
The hosts failed to convert an early penalty and were goalless at the interval even with controlling possession, finally breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
The goal arrived after full-back Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before laying it across for Brahim Díaz to sidefoot home.
“The first match is invariably tough but we delivered in the second period,” said manager Walid Regragui.
El Kaabi's Piece of Brilliance
The tension was then calmed by a moment of sheer genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Only 10 minutes after his introduction, the forward connected with a cross with a stunning overhead kick in the 74th minute, doubling and ensuring the result.
Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team could have been ahead in the 11th minute after a penalty was awarded for a foul on Brahim Díaz. However, Rahimi's penalty was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor.
The Visitors' Defiant Stand and Second-Half Opportunity
Comoros comfortably held Morocco for long periods before the Moroccans' individual talent in the end told.
Shot-stopper Pandor pulled off several other good stops to limit the scoreline as the game progressed, although his team created a chance for an equalizer shortly after the first goal, with Saïd firing directly into Morocco goalkeeper Bounou.
Fitness Concern for Hosts
The three points was somewhat marred by an apparent injury to the skipper, Romain Saïss, who was forced off in the 18th minute apparently in tears.
The centre-back had just returned to the international setup last month following a year’s absence caused by ankle surgery.
The win extends the team's record-breaking run of successive victories to 19, surpassing the previous record of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.