El Kaabi's Stunning Strike Wraps Up The Atlas Lions' Triumph Over Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations First Game.
Host nation the Moroccan side shook off a jittery start to beat their island opponents in the competition's first match on the weekend, after strikes by the Real Madrid attacker and super-sub El Kaabi in the second half.
This constituted a hardly emphatic showing, though, from the heavily tipped hosts, who sit 97 places higher than the tiny island nation in the world rankings and had to work tirelessly for the points in rainy conditions at Rabat's national stadium.
Tense Beginning and Missed Chances
Morocco missed an first-half spot-kick and were goalless at the interval even with dominating the ball, finally opening the scoring in the 11th minute of the second half.
The goal came when Noussair Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before slipping it across for Díaz to calmly pass into the net.
Every opening game is never easy but we came good in the second half,” commented Morocco coach Regragui.
The Substitute's Piece of Magic
The tension was subsequently calmed by a moment of pure individual brilliance from substitute El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes after his introduction, the forward met a cross with a acrobatic bicycle kick in the 74th minute, making it two and ensuring the win.
Before that, the Moroccan team could have been ahead in the 11th minute after a spot-kick was given for a challenge on Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi penalty was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor.
Comoros Resistance and Late Opportunity
Comoros comfortably held their more illustrious opponents for long periods until the hosts' superior firepower in the end made the difference.
Shot-stopper Pandor pulled off a number of other fine saves to limit the score as the game wore on, even though Comoros created a chance for an equalizer shortly following the first goal, with Saïd shooting directly into keeper Bounou.
Fitness Concern for Morocco
The victory was somewhat marred by an apparent injury to Morocco's skipper, Saïss, who was forced off in the first half in tears.
This defender had only made his comeback to the national side last month after a lengthy absence due to a serious ankle operation.
This result continues the team's record-breaking run of consecutive wins to nineteen, beating the old best of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.
