El Kaabi's Stunning Finish Wraps Up The Atlas Lions' Victory Against Comoros in Afcon First Game.
Host nation the Moroccan side shook off a jittery beginning to overcome their island opponents in the tournament's opening game on Sunday, after strikes by the Real Madrid attacker and super-sub Ayoub El Kaabi in the latter period.
It was a less than dominant showing, though, from the strongly favored Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places above the small Indian Ocean nation in the world rankings and were forced to grind out for the three points in rainy conditions at Rabat's national stadium.
Tense Beginning and Missed Chances
The hosts failed to convert an first-half spot-kick and were locked at 0-0 at the interval despite dominating the ball, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
It arrived after full-back Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before laying it square for Brahim Díaz to calmly pass home.
“The first match is never easy but we came good in the second period,” said Morocco coach Regragui.
The Substitute's Moment of Magic
The tension was subsequently calmed by a piece of pure genius from substitute El Kaabi. Only ten minutes following his introduction, the striker met a cross with a acrobatic overhead kick in the 74th minute, doubling and ensuring the win.
Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team 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' Defiant Stand and Late Opportunity
The underdogs stoutly defended against Morocco for long periods before the Moroccans' greater quality eventually made the difference.
Goalkeeper Pandor made several further fine saves to keep down the score as the match wore on, even though Comoros created a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly after Díaz's goal, with Saïd shooting straight at Morocco goalkeeper Bounou.
Injury Worry for Morocco
The three points was partially overshadowed by an apparent injury to Morocco's captain, Saïss, who was forced off in the 18th minute in some distress.
This centre-back had just made his comeback to the international setup recently following a year’s absence caused by ankle surgery.
This result continues Morocco's record-breaking run of consecutive wins to 19, beating the previous best of 15 set by the Spanish national team from 2008 and 2009.
