El Kaabi's Spectacular Goal Secures The Atlas Lions' Triumph Against Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations Opening Match.
Host nation Morocco overcame a anxious start to beat their island opponents in the competition's opening game on the weekend, with goals from Brahim Díaz and super-sub El Kaabi in the second half.
This constituted a less than dominant performance, though, from the strongly favored Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places above the small island nation in the FIFA rankings and had to grind out for the points in rainy conditions at the Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Tense Beginning and Spurned Opportunities
Morocco missed an early penalty and were locked at 0-0 at half-time despite controlling the ball, finally breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
It came when full-back Mazraoui showed great skill to prevent the ball from going out before laying it across for Díaz to sidefoot into the net.
Every opening game is always difficult but we delivered in the second half,” said manager Regragui.
El Kaabi's Piece of Brilliance
The tension was then eased by a moment of pure genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Only 10 minutes following coming on, 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 when a spot-kick was given for a challenge on Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi penalty was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.
Comoros Defiant Stand and Late Chance
Comoros stoutly defended against their more illustrious opponents at bay until the Moroccans' superior firepower eventually made the difference.
Goalkeeper Yannick Pandor pulled off a number of further good stops to keep down the score as the game progressed, although his team created a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly after the first goal, with Saïd firing directly into Morocco goalkeeper Bounou.
Fitness Worry for Morocco
The victory was somewhat overshadowed by an injury to Morocco's skipper, Romain Saïss, who was forced off after the 18th minute apparently in tears.
The centre-back had just returned to the international setup recently after a year’s absence caused by a serious ankle operation.
This result continues the team's record-breaking run of successive victories to 19, beating the old record of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.
