El Kaabi's Breathtaking Finish Wraps Up Morocco's Victory Over Comoros in Afcon Opener.
Host nation Morocco overcame a jittery beginning to overcome Comoros in the competition's inaugural fixture on the weekend, thanks to the Real Madrid attacker and super-sub Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
This constituted a less than dominant showing, however, from the strongly favored hosts, who are ranked 97 places above the small Indian Ocean nation in the world rankings and had to toil hard for the points in rainy conditions at Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Nervy Beginning and Missed Opportunities
Morocco failed to convert an first-half penalty and were locked at 0-0 at the interval despite dominating possession, finally opening the scoring in the 55th minute.
It came when Noussair Mazraoui did well to keep the ball in play before slipping it square for Brahim Díaz to sidefoot home.
“The opening game is invariably tough but we improved in the second half,” said Morocco coach Walid Regragui.
The Substitute's Moment of Brilliance
The tension was subsequently eased by a moment of pure genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just ten minutes following coming on, the striker connected with a cross with a spectacular overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the win.
Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team might have taken the lead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was awarded for a foul on Díaz. Yet, Rahimi's penalty was kept out by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor.
The Visitors' Defiant Stand and Late Chance
Comoros comfortably held Morocco at bay before the Moroccans' superior firepower in the end told.
Shot-stopper Pandor made several further good stops to limit the scoreline as the match progressed, although Comoros created a chance for an equaliser shortly following the first goal, with Saïd firing straight at Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.
Fitness Concern for Morocco
The three points was partially marred by an injury to the skipper, Romain Saïss, who limped off in the first half apparently in tears.
The defender had just returned to the international setup last month following a lengthy absence due to a serious ankle operation.
This result continues Morocco's historic run of successive wins to nineteen, surpassing the previous record of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.
