El Kaabi's Stunning Finish Secures The Atlas Lions' Triumph Against Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations First Game.
Host nation Morocco shook off a jittery start to defeat Comoros in the competition's opening game on Sunday, with goals from Brahim Díaz and substitute Ayoub El Kaabi in the latter period.
This constituted a less than dominant performance, though, from the heavily tipped hosts, who sit 97 places higher than the tiny island nation in the FIFA rankings and had to grind out for the victory in wet conditions at the national stadium.
Tense Start and Missed Opportunities
Morocco failed to convert an first-half spot-kick and were locked at 0-0 at the interval despite dominating possession, finally breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
It arrived after full-back Mazraoui showed great skill to prevent the ball from going out before laying it square for Brahim Díaz to sidefoot home.
“The opening game is always difficult but we came good in the second half,” said manager Regragui.
El Kaabi's Moment of Brilliance
The tension was subsequently calmed by a moment of sheer genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes after coming on, the forward met a cross with a acrobatic bicycle kick in the 74th minute, doubling and ensuring the result.
Earlier in the match, the hosts might have taken the lead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was given for a challenge on Brahim Díaz. However, Soufiane Rahimi penalty was saved by keeper Pandor.
Comoros Resistance and Second-Half Chance
The underdogs stoutly defended against Morocco for long periods before the Moroccans' individual talent eventually made the difference.
Goalkeeper Pandor made several other good stops to limit the scoreline as the game wore on, even though Comoros created a chance for an equalizer shortly after Díaz's goal, with Rafiki Saïd firing straight at keeper Yassine Bounou.
Fitness Worry for Morocco
The victory was partially overshadowed by an apparent injury to Morocco's skipper, Romain Saïss, who limped off in the first half in some distress.
This defender had just returned to the international setup last month following a year’s layoff due to ankle surgery.
The win continues the team's historic run of successive victories to nineteen, surpassing the old best of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.
