Ayoub El Kaabi's Stunning Goal Secures Morocco's Triumph Over the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations Opener.
Host nation Morocco overcame a jittery beginning to defeat Comoros in the tournament's first match on Sunday, thanks to the Real Madrid attacker and super-sub El Kaabi in the latter period.
It was a less than dominant showing, however, from the strongly favored Moroccans, who sit 97 places above the small Indian Ocean nation in the FIFA rankings and had to grind out for the points in wet conditions at the national stadium.
Tense Beginning and Missed Opportunities
The hosts failed to convert an early penalty and were locked at 0-0 at the interval despite dominating possession, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
It arrived after Noussair Mazraoui showed great skill to keep the ball in play before slipping it across for Brahim DĂaz to sidefoot home.
“The first match is never easy but we came good in the second period,” said Morocco coach Walid Regragui.
El Kaabi's Piece of Brilliance
The tension was subsequently extinguished by a moment of sheer individual brilliance from substitute El Kaabi. Only 10 minutes following his introduction, the striker met a cross with a spectacular overhead kick in the 74th minute, doubling and sealing the win.
Before that, the hosts could have been ahead in the 11th minute after a penalty was given for a challenge on Brahim DĂaz. However, Soufiane Rahimi effort was kept out by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.
The Visitors' Resistance and Second-Half Chance
Comoros stoutly defended against their more illustrious opponents at bay before the hosts' individual talent in the end made the difference.
Goalkeeper Pandor pulled off several further fine saves to keep down the scoreline as the game wore on, although his team did have a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly after the first goal, with Rafiki SaĂŻd shooting straight at keeper Bounou.
Injury Concern for Morocco
The victory was partially overshadowed by an apparent injury to the captain, Romain SaĂŻss, who was forced off after the first half in some distress.
The centre-back had only returned to the national side last month after a lengthy absence due to ankle surgery.
The win continues the team's historic run of consecutive wins to nineteen, beating the previous best of 15 set by the Spanish national team from 2008 and 2009.
