El Kaabi's Breathtaking Finish Caps Morocco's Victory Over Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations Opening Match.
Host nation Morocco overcame a nervy start to defeat their island opponents in the tournament's first match on Sunday, with goals from Brahim Díaz and substitute Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
It was a less than dominant performance, though, from the heavily tipped hosts, who are ranked 97 places above the tiny Indian Ocean nation in the FIFA rankings and had to work tirelessly for the victory in rainy conditions at the national stadium.
Tense Start and Spurned Chances
Morocco failed to convert an early spot-kick and were locked at 0-0 at half-time even with controlling the ball, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
It arrived after Noussair Mazraoui showed great skill to prevent the ball from going out before laying it square for Brahim Díaz to sidefoot home.
“The opening game is never easy but we delivered in the second half,” commented Morocco coach Walid Regragui.
El Kaabi's Moment of Magic
The tension was then eased by a moment of sheer individual brilliance from substitute El Kaabi. Only 10 minutes after coming on, the forward met a ball into the box with a stunning bicycle kick in the 74th minute, doubling and ensuring the win.
Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team might have taken the lead in the 11th minute after a penalty was awarded for a challenge on Brahim Díaz. However, Rahimi's penalty was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.
Comoros Resistance and Second-Half Opportunity
The underdogs stoutly defended against Morocco for long periods until the hosts' individual talent in the end told.
Goalkeeper Yannick Pandor pulled off several other fine saves to limit the scoreline as the game wore on, although Comoros created a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly after the first goal, with Rafiki Saïd firing directly into Morocco goalkeeper Bounou.
Injury Concern for Hosts
The victory was somewhat marred by an apparent injury to Morocco's captain, Saïss, who was forced off in the 18th minute in tears.
This defender had only returned to the national side recently after a lengthy absence due to a serious ankle operation.
This result continues Morocco's record-breaking run of successive wins to nineteen, surpassing the previous record of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.
