El Kaabi's Stunning Goal Caps The Atlas Lions' Win Against Comoros in Afcon First Game.
Host nation Morocco overcame a anxious start to defeat their island opponents in the tournament's opening game on Sunday, thanks to the Real Madrid attacker and super-sub El Kaabi in the latter period.
This constituted a less than dominant showing, though, from the highly fancied hosts, who sit 97 places higher than the small island nation in the FIFA rankings and had to toil hard for the points in wet conditions at Rabat's national stadium.
Nervy Start and Missed Chances
Morocco failed to convert an early spot-kick and were goalless at half-time despite controlling possession, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
It arrived after Noussair Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before laying it square for Brahim Díaz to calmly pass home.
Every first match is never easy but we delivered in the second half,” commented Morocco coach Regragui.
El Kaabi's Piece of Magic
Any lingering nerves was subsequently extinguished by a moment of sheer genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Only ten minutes following coming on, the forward met a cross with a spectacular overhead kick in the 74th minute, doubling and ensuring the result.
Before that, the Moroccan team could have been the lead in the 11th minute after a spot-kick was given for a foul on Díaz. However, Soufiane Rahimi penalty was saved by keeper Pandor.
The Visitors' Defiant Stand and Second-Half Opportunity
The underdogs stoutly defended against their more illustrious opponents at bay before the hosts' individual talent eventually told.
Goalkeeper Yannick Pandor pulled off a number of other fine saves to limit the score as the game progressed, even though Comoros created a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly after Díaz's goal, with Saïd firing directly into keeper Yassine Bounou.
Injury Worry for Hosts
The victory was partially overshadowed by an injury to Morocco's captain, Saïss, who limped off in the first half apparently in some distress.
The centre-back had only returned to the national side recently following a lengthy absence due to a serious ankle operation.
The win continues Morocco's historic run of successive victories to 19, beating the old record of 15 set by the Spanish national team from 2008 and 2009.
