Ayoub El Kaabi's Breathtaking Goal Wraps Up Morocco's Triumph Over Comoros in Afcon Opener.
Host nation the Moroccan side overcame a jittery beginning to beat their island opponents in the tournament's opening game on the weekend, after strikes by the Real Madrid attacker and super-sub Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
This constituted a less than dominant performance, however, from the highly fancied Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places higher than the tiny Indian Ocean nation in the world rankings and were forced to grind out for the victory in wet conditions at the national stadium.
Nervy Beginning and Missed Chances
The hosts missed an first-half penalty and were goalless at half-time despite dominating possession, finally breaking the deadlock in the 11th minute of the second half.
The goal came when Noussair Mazraoui did well to keep the ball in play before laying it square for Díaz to calmly pass home.
Every first match is always difficult but we improved in the second period,” said Morocco coach Walid Regragui.
The Substitute's Moment of Magic
Any lingering nerves was subsequently calmed by a moment of pure individual brilliance from substitute El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes following his introduction, the striker connected with a ball into the box with a acrobatic overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the result.
Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team could have been the lead in the 11th minute when a penalty was given for a foul on Brahim Díaz. However, Soufiane Rahimi penalty was kept out by keeper Yannick Pandor.
Comoros Resistance and Late Opportunity
The underdogs comfortably held Morocco for long periods before the Moroccans' superior firepower in the end told.
Goalkeeper Yannick Pandor pulled off several other good stops to limit the score as the match progressed, although his team created a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly after the first goal, with Rafiki Saïd shooting straight at Morocco goalkeeper Bounou.
Fitness Worry for Hosts
The victory was somewhat overshadowed by an apparent injury to the captain, Romain Saïss, who was forced off after the first half apparently in some distress.
This centre-back had just made his comeback to the national side last month following a year’s absence due to a serious ankle operation.
The win continues Morocco's record-breaking run of successive wins to nineteen, beating the old record of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.
