Ayoub El Kaabi's Spectacular Strike Wraps Up Morocco's Victory Over Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations Opener.
The Morocco shook off a anxious beginning to defeat their island opponents in the competition's opening game on the weekend, after strikes by the Real Madrid attacker and substitute El Kaabi in the second half.
This constituted a less than dominant display, however, from the strongly favored Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places above the tiny Indian Ocean nation in the FIFA rankings and were forced to grind out for the points in rainy conditions at Rabat's national stadium.
Tense Start and Missed Opportunities
Morocco missed an early penalty and were locked at 0-0 at the interval despite controlling possession, finally opening the scoring in the 55th minute.
The goal came when full-back Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before laying it square for Brahim Díaz to sidefoot home.
Every opening game is invariably tough but we improved in the second period,” said Morocco coach Walid Regragui.
The Substitute's Moment of Brilliance
The tension was subsequently extinguished by a piece of pure genius from substitute El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes after coming on, the striker connected with a cross with a spectacular bicycle kick in the 74th minute, doubling and sealing the result.
Earlier in the match, the hosts could have been the lead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was given for a foul on Díaz. However, Rahimi's effort was saved by keeper Pandor.
The Visitors' Resistance and Late Opportunity
The underdogs comfortably held Morocco at bay before the Moroccans' individual talent eventually told.
Goalkeeper Yannick Pandor made a number of further fine saves to limit the scoreline as the match progressed, even though Comoros created a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly following the first goal, with Rafiki Saïd shooting directly into Morocco goalkeeper Bounou.
Injury Worry for Morocco
The three points was somewhat marred by an injury to the captain, Saïss, who was forced off after the first half apparently in tears.
This centre-back had only made his comeback to the international setup recently following a year’s absence due to a serious ankle operation.
This result continues the team's historic run of successive wins to nineteen, beating the old record of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.
