El Kaabi's Breathtaking Goal Wraps Up Morocco's Win Over Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations Opening Match.
Host nation the Moroccan side shook off a anxious beginning to beat their island opponents in the competition's first match on the weekend, thanks to the Real Madrid attacker and substitute Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
It was a far from convincing display, however, from the strongly favored hosts, who sit 97 places above the small Indian Ocean nation in the world rankings and had to toil hard for the victory in rainy conditions at Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Nervy Beginning and Missed Chances
The hosts failed to convert an first-half penalty and were goalless at the interval despite controlling possession, eventually opening the scoring in the 55th minute.
The goal came when full-back Mazraoui showed great skill to keep the ball in play before slipping it across for Brahim Díaz to calmly pass home.
Every first match is always difficult but we improved in the second half,” commented Morocco coach Regragui.
The Substitute's Moment of Brilliance
Any lingering nerves was subsequently extinguished by a piece of sheer individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Only 10 minutes after his introduction, the striker connected with a ball into the box with a acrobatic bicycle kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the result.
Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team might have taken the lead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was given for a challenge on Díaz. However, Rahimi's penalty was saved by keeper Pandor.
Comoros Defiant Stand and Late Chance
The underdogs comfortably held Morocco for long periods before the hosts' superior firepower eventually made the difference.
Goalkeeper Yannick Pandor made a number of other good stops to keep down the scoreline as the match wore on, even though Comoros did have a chance for an equalizer shortly following Díaz's goal, with Rafiki Saïd shooting directly into keeper Yassine Bounou.
Fitness Concern for Hosts
The victory was somewhat overshadowed by an injury to the captain, Saïss, who limped off in the 18th minute apparently in some distress.
This defender had just made his comeback to the national side recently after a year’s absence caused by ankle surgery.
The win extends Morocco's historic run of successive wins to nineteen, surpassing the old best of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.
