Ayoub El Kaabi's Breathtaking Goal Secures Morocco's Triumph Against Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations Opener.
The Morocco shook off a anxious beginning to overcome their island opponents in the competition's opening game on the weekend, with goals from Brahim Díaz and super-sub El Kaabi in the second half.
This constituted a far from convincing performance, however, from the heavily tipped Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places above the tiny Indian Ocean nation in the FIFA rankings and had to work tirelessly for the three points in rainy conditions at Rabat's national stadium.
Nervy Start and Missed Chances
Morocco missed an first-half penalty and were goalless at half-time even with dominating the ball, finally opening the scoring in the 11th minute of the second half.
The goal came when full-back Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before laying it square for Brahim Díaz to sidefoot into the net.
Every opening game is always difficult but we improved in the second half,” commented manager Regragui.
The Substitute's Moment of Brilliance
The tension was then extinguished by a moment of pure genius from substitute El Kaabi. Only ten minutes after his introduction, the striker connected with a ball into the box with a stunning bicycle kick in the 74th minute, doubling and ensuring the win.
Before that, the hosts might have taken the lead in the 11th minute when a penalty was awarded for a challenge on Díaz. However, Rahimi's penalty was kept out by keeper Yannick Pandor.
The Visitors' Defiant Stand and Second-Half Opportunity
Comoros comfortably held Morocco for long periods before the Moroccans' superior firepower eventually told.
Shot-stopper Pandor made several further fine saves to limit the scoreline as the match progressed, even though Comoros did have a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly following Díaz's goal, with Saïd firing directly into keeper Yassine Bounou.
Injury Concern for Hosts
The victory was partially overshadowed by an apparent injury to the captain, Saïss, who limped off after the first half apparently in some distress.
This centre-back had just returned to the national side last month following a year’s absence caused by ankle surgery.
The win extends Morocco's historic run of consecutive wins to nineteen, beating the old record of 15 set by the Spanish national team between 2008 and 2009.
