Ayoub El Kaabi's Stunning Goal Wraps Up The Atlas Lions' Win Over Comoros in Afcon Opening Match.
The the Moroccan side shook off a nervy start to defeat Comoros in the tournament's inaugural fixture on the weekend, with goals from the Real Madrid attacker and substitute Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
It was a hardly emphatic performance, however, from the highly fancied Moroccans, who sit 97 places above the small Indian Ocean nation in the world rankings and had to toil hard for the points in rainy conditions at the national stadium.
Nervy Beginning and Missed Opportunities
The hosts failed to convert an early spot-kick and were locked at 0-0 at the interval despite dominating the ball, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
It came when full-back Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before slipping it across for Brahim Díaz to calmly pass into the net.
“The first match is never easy but we came good in the second period,” said manager Regragui.
El Kaabi's Piece of Magic
Any lingering nerves was then eased by a moment of pure genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Only ten minutes after coming on, the forward connected with a ball into the box with a spectacular overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the result.
Earlier in the match, the hosts could have been the lead in the 11th minute after a spot-kick was awarded for a challenge on Díaz. However, Rahimi's penalty was saved by keeper Pandor.
The Visitors' Defiant Stand and Second-Half Chance
Comoros comfortably held their more illustrious opponents at bay until the hosts' individual talent in the end made the difference.
Goalkeeper Pandor pulled off several other fine saves to limit the scoreline as the match wore on, even though Comoros did have a chance for an equaliser shortly after Díaz's goal, with Rafiki Saïd firing directly into keeper Bounou.
Fitness Concern for Hosts
The three points was partially overshadowed by an apparent injury to Morocco's captain, Romain Saïss, who limped off in the 18th minute apparently in tears.
This defender had just made his comeback to the international setup last month after a year’s absence caused by a serious ankle operation.
The win continues Morocco's record-breaking run of consecutive victories to nineteen, beating the old record of 15 set by the Spanish national team between 2008 and 2009.
