El Kaabi's Stunning Goal Wraps Up Morocco's Win Over Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations Opening Match.
The the Moroccan side shook off a jittery start to defeat their island opponents in the competition's first match on the weekend, with goals from Brahim Díaz and super-sub Ayoub El Kaabi in the latter period.
It was a hardly emphatic showing, however, from the highly fancied hosts, who sit 97 places higher than the small Indian Ocean nation in the world rankings and were forced to work tirelessly for the victory in rainy conditions at Rabat's national stadium.
Tense Start and Spurned Opportunities
Morocco missed an first-half penalty and were goalless at the interval despite dominating possession, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
It came when Noussair Mazraoui showed great skill to keep the ball in play before laying it square for Díaz to sidefoot home.
Every first match is never easy but we delivered in the second half,” said Morocco coach Regragui.
El Kaabi's Moment of Brilliance
Any lingering nerves was subsequently calmed by a piece of pure individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Only 10 minutes after his introduction, the forward connected with a cross with a acrobatic bicycle kick in the 74th minute, doubling and ensuring the result.
Before that, the Moroccan team could have been ahead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was awarded for a foul on Brahim Díaz. Yet, Rahimi's effort was kept out by keeper Yannick Pandor.
The Visitors' Defiant Stand and Second-Half Chance
The underdogs stoutly defended against Morocco for long periods before the Moroccans' individual talent eventually told.
Goalkeeper Pandor pulled off a number of other good stops to keep down the score as the game progressed, even though his team created a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly after the first goal, with Saïd shooting straight at keeper Yassine Bounou.
Injury Worry for Morocco
The victory was partially overshadowed by an injury to the skipper, Saïss, who was forced off in the 18th minute apparently in tears.
This centre-back had only made his comeback to the international setup last month after a lengthy absence due to a serious ankle operation.
The win continues Morocco's historic run of consecutive wins to 19, beating the previous record of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.