El Kaabi's Breathtaking Strike Caps The Atlas Lions' Win Over Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations First Game.
The the Moroccan side shook off a nervy start to overcome their island opponents in the tournament's opening game on the weekend, with goals from the Real Madrid attacker and substitute Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
It was a far from convincing showing, though, from the highly fancied hosts, who are ranked 97 places above the tiny Indian Ocean nation in the world rankings and had to work tirelessly for the points in wet conditions at Rabat's national stadium.
Nervy Beginning and Missed Chances
Morocco missed an early penalty and were locked at 0-0 at half-time even with controlling possession, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
It came when Noussair Mazraoui did well to keep the ball in play before laying it across for Brahim Díaz to sidefoot into the net.
“The first match is never easy but we delivered in the second half,” commented manager Regragui.
The Substitute's Moment of Brilliance
The tension was then extinguished by a moment of sheer genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just ten minutes following his introduction, the forward met a ball into the box with a stunning bicycle kick in the 74th minute, doubling and sealing the result.
Earlier in the match, the hosts might have taken the lead in the 11th minute when a penalty was awarded for a challenge on Brahim Díaz. However, Soufiane Rahimi penalty was kept out by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.
Comoros Defiant Stand and Late Opportunity
Comoros comfortably held their more illustrious opponents for long periods until the hosts' individual talent in the end told.
Goalkeeper Yannick Pandor made a number of other good stops to limit the score as the game progressed, although his team did have a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly following Díaz's goal, with Rafiki Saïd shooting straight at keeper Yassine Bounou.
Injury Concern for Morocco
The victory was somewhat overshadowed by an injury to Morocco's skipper, Saïss, who was forced off in the 18th minute in tears.
This centre-back had only made his comeback to the national side recently following a year’s layoff due to ankle surgery.
The win continues Morocco's record-breaking run of consecutive wins to nineteen, beating the old best of 15 set by the Spanish national team between 2008 and 2009.
