El Kaabi's Spectacular Strike Wraps Up Morocco's Victory Against Comoros in Afcon Opening Match.
Host nation Morocco shook off a nervy beginning to defeat Comoros in the competition's first match on Sunday, after strikes by the Real Madrid attacker and super-sub Ayoub El Kaabi in the latter period.
This constituted a hardly emphatic showing, however, from the strongly favored hosts, who sit 97 places above the tiny island nation in the FIFA rankings and were forced to work tirelessly for the three points in rainy conditions at the national stadium.
Nervy Start and Missed Chances
The hosts missed an first-half penalty and were locked at 0-0 at the interval even with dominating possession, finally opening the scoring in the 11th minute of the second half.
The goal came when full-back Mazraoui showed great skill to prevent the ball from going out before laying it across for Brahim Díaz to sidefoot home.
Every opening game is always difficult but we improved in the second period,” commented Morocco coach Regragui.
El Kaabi's Piece of Brilliance
The tension was subsequently calmed by a piece of sheer genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just ten minutes after coming on, the forward met a cross with a acrobatic overhead kick in the 74th minute, doubling and ensuring the win.
Before that, the Moroccan team could have been ahead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was awarded for a foul on Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi penalty was saved by keeper Pandor.
Comoros Defiant Stand and Late Opportunity
The underdogs comfortably held Morocco for long periods until the Moroccans' superior firepower in the end told.
Shot-stopper Yannick Pandor pulled off several further fine saves to limit the scoreline as the match wore on, although Comoros created a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly after the first goal, with Saïd shooting directly into Morocco goalkeeper Bounou.
Injury Worry for Morocco
The three points was partially overshadowed by an apparent injury to Morocco's captain, Saïss, who limped off in the 18th minute apparently in tears.
This centre-back had only returned to the national side recently following a lengthy layoff due to ankle surgery.
This result continues Morocco's record-breaking run of consecutive victories to 19, surpassing the old record of 15 set by the Spanish national team from 2008 and 2009.
