El Kaabi's Spectacular Finish Caps Morocco's Triumph Over Comoros in Afcon First Game.
Host nation the Moroccan side overcame a nervy start to defeat their island opponents in the competition's first match on the weekend, after strikes by Brahim Díaz and super-sub El Kaabi in the second half.
This constituted a hardly emphatic performance, however, from the highly fancied hosts, who are ranked 97 places higher than the tiny island nation in the FIFA rankings and had to work tirelessly for the three points in rainy conditions at Rabat's national stadium.
Nervy Beginning and Spurned Chances
Morocco missed an early spot-kick and were goalless at the interval even with dominating possession, finally breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
It arrived after Noussair Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before laying it square for Díaz to calmly pass into the net.
Every first match is always difficult but we came good in the second period,” said manager Walid Regragui.
The Substitute's Moment of Magic
Any lingering nerves was subsequently extinguished by a piece of sheer individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes following coming on, the forward connected with a ball into the box with a stunning bicycle kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the win.
Earlier in the match, the hosts could have been the lead in the 11th minute after a spot-kick was given for a challenge on Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi effort was kept out by keeper Yannick Pandor.
The Visitors' Defiant Stand and Second-Half Chance
The underdogs comfortably held their more illustrious opponents at bay before the Moroccans' superior firepower in the end told.
Goalkeeper Pandor made several further good stops to limit the scoreline as the game progressed, although Comoros created a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly after Díaz's goal, with Saïd shooting directly into Morocco goalkeeper Bounou.
Fitness Worry for Hosts
The victory was partially overshadowed by an apparent injury to Morocco's skipper, Romain Saïss, who limped off after the 18th minute in some distress.
This centre-back had only returned to the national side recently after a year’s absence caused by ankle surgery.
The win continues Morocco's historic run of consecutive victories to nineteen, beating the old record of 15 set by the Spanish national team from 2008 and 2009.