Ayoub El Kaabi's Breathtaking Strike Wraps Up The Atlas Lions' Triumph Against Comoros in Afcon Opener.
Host nation the Moroccan side shook off a nervy start to defeat Comoros in the competition's first match on the weekend, thanks to Brahim Díaz and super-sub El Kaabi in the latter period.
This constituted a far from convincing performance, however, from the heavily tipped hosts, who sit 97 places above the tiny island nation in the world rankings and were forced to toil hard for the victory in rainy conditions at Rabat's national stadium.
Nervy Beginning and Spurned Chances
Morocco failed to convert an early spot-kick and were locked at 0-0 at the interval despite controlling possession, finally opening the scoring in the 55th minute.
The goal arrived after full-back Mazraoui showed great skill to keep the ball in play before slipping it across for Brahim Díaz to calmly pass home.
Every opening game is invariably tough but we came good in the second half,” commented Morocco coach Regragui.
El Kaabi's Moment of Brilliance
The tension was then calmed by a piece of sheer genius from substitute El Kaabi. Only ten minutes after his introduction, the striker connected with a cross with a stunning bicycle kick in the 74th minute, making it two and ensuring the result.
Earlier in the match, the hosts could have been ahead in the 11th minute after a penalty was awarded for a challenge on Brahim Díaz. However, Rahimi's effort was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.
Comoros Defiant Stand and Second-Half Chance
Comoros stoutly defended against their more illustrious opponents at bay until the Moroccans' superior firepower in the end made the difference.
Shot-stopper Yannick Pandor made several other good stops to limit the scoreline as the match progressed, even though Comoros did have a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly following the first goal, with Rafiki Saïd shooting straight at keeper Yassine Bounou.
Fitness Concern for Morocco
The three points was somewhat overshadowed by an apparent injury to Morocco's skipper, Saïss, who limped off in the first half in tears.
The centre-back had only made his comeback to the national side recently after a lengthy absence due to a serious ankle operation.
This result extends the team's record-breaking run of consecutive victories to nineteen, surpassing the previous record of 15 set by the Spanish national team between 2008 and 2009.