El Kaabi's Stunning Strike Wraps Up The Atlas Lions' Win Against Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations Opener.
The the Moroccan side shook off a jittery start to defeat Comoros in the tournament's inaugural fixture on the weekend, thanks to Brahim Díaz and substitute Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
It was a far from convincing display, however, from the heavily tipped hosts, who are ranked 97 places higher than the small Indian Ocean nation in the FIFA rankings and were forced to work tirelessly for the victory in rainy conditions at the national stadium.
Nervy Beginning and Missed Opportunities
The hosts missed an first-half penalty and were locked at 0-0 at half-time even with dominating possession, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
The goal arrived after full-back Mazraoui showed great skill to keep the ball in play before laying it square for Díaz to sidefoot home.
Every opening game is never easy but we delivered in the second half,” said Morocco coach Walid Regragui.
El Kaabi's Piece of Brilliance
Any lingering nerves was then calmed by a piece of pure individual brilliance from substitute El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes following his introduction, the forward connected with a ball into the box with a spectacular bicycle kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the win.
Before that, the Moroccan team could have been ahead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was awarded for a challenge on Brahim Díaz. However, Soufiane Rahimi effort was saved by keeper Yannick Pandor.
Comoros Resistance and Late Chance
The underdogs comfortably held Morocco at bay before the Moroccans' individual talent in the end told.
Goalkeeper Yannick Pandor made several further fine saves to limit the score as the match wore on, although his team created a chance for an equalizer shortly following Díaz's goal, with Saïd shooting straight at Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.
Fitness Concern for Morocco
The victory was partially marred by an apparent injury to the skipper, Saïss, who was forced off after the 18th minute apparently in some distress.
The defender had just made his comeback to the national side last month following a lengthy absence due to a serious ankle operation.
This result extends Morocco's record-breaking run of consecutive wins to nineteen, beating the previous best of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.
