El Kaabi's Stunning Finish Secures The Atlas Lions' Win Over Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations Opening Match.
The the Moroccan side shook off a anxious start to defeat Comoros in the tournament's first match on Sunday, with goals from Brahim Díaz and super-sub Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
It was a less than dominant showing, though, from the strongly favored hosts, who sit 97 places above the small Indian Ocean nation in the world rankings and had to work tirelessly for the three points in rainy conditions at Rabat's national stadium.
Tense Start and Spurned Opportunities
Morocco failed to convert an early penalty and were goalless at half-time despite dominating the ball, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
The goal arrived after full-back Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before laying it across for Díaz to calmly pass into the net.
“The opening game is always difficult but we delivered in the second half,” said manager Regragui.
The Substitute's Piece of Brilliance
The tension was then extinguished by a moment of pure genius from substitute El Kaabi. Just ten minutes following his introduction, the forward connected with a cross with a stunning overhead kick in the 74th minute, doubling and sealing the win.
Before that, the Moroccan team might have taken the lead in the 11th minute after a penalty was given for a foul on Díaz. However, Soufiane Rahimi effort was kept out by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.
Comoros Resistance and Second-Half Chance
The underdogs stoutly defended against their more illustrious opponents for long periods before the hosts' individual talent eventually told.
Goalkeeper Pandor pulled off several further good stops to keep down the scoreline as the game progressed, even though Comoros created a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly following Díaz's goal, with Rafiki Saïd firing directly into keeper Bounou.
Injury Worry for Morocco
The three points was somewhat overshadowed by an apparent injury to Morocco's skipper, Saïss, who was forced off in the first half apparently in some distress.
This centre-back had just made his comeback to the international setup recently after a year’s absence due to ankle surgery.
The win extends the team's record-breaking run of successive victories to 19, surpassing the previous record of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.
