Ayoub El Kaabi's Breathtaking Goal Secures Morocco's Victory Over the Coelacanths in Afcon First Game.
The the Moroccan side overcame a anxious start to beat their island opponents in the competition's inaugural fixture on Sunday, after strikes by Brahim Díaz and super-sub Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
It was a hardly emphatic showing, though, from the highly fancied hosts, who sit 97 places above the small island nation in the world rankings and were forced to toil hard for the points in wet conditions at Rabat's national stadium.
Nervy Start and Spurned Opportunities
The hosts missed an early penalty and were goalless at the interval despite controlling possession, finally breaking the deadlock in the 11th minute of the second half.
The goal came when full-back Mazraoui did well to keep the ball in play before laying it square for Brahim Díaz to calmly pass home.
Every opening game is invariably tough but we improved in the second period,” commented manager Walid Regragui.
The Substitute's Moment of Brilliance
Any lingering nerves was subsequently calmed by a piece of sheer genius from substitute El Kaabi. Only 10 minutes after coming on, the forward connected with a cross with a spectacular bicycle kick in the 74th minute, making it two and ensuring the win.
Before that, the hosts could have been ahead in the 11th minute when a penalty was awarded for a challenge on Brahim Díaz. However, Soufiane Rahimi penalty was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.
The Visitors' Resistance and Late Chance
Comoros stoutly defended against their more illustrious opponents for long periods before the hosts' individual talent eventually made the difference.
Shot-stopper Pandor pulled off a number of other fine saves to keep down the score as the match wore on, although Comoros created a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly after Díaz's goal, with Rafiki Saïd firing straight at keeper Bounou.
Fitness Worry for Morocco
The victory was partially overshadowed by an apparent injury to Morocco's skipper, Romain Saïss, who was forced off in the 18th minute apparently in tears.
The centre-back had only made his comeback to the national side last month after a year’s absence caused by ankle surgery.
The win continues Morocco's record-breaking run of consecutive victories to 19, beating the old best of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.
