El Kaabi's Breathtaking Finish Caps Morocco's Triumph Against the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations First Game.
The the Moroccan side shook off a nervy beginning to beat Comoros in the tournament's opening game on Sunday, with goals from Brahim Díaz and super-sub El Kaabi in the second half.
This constituted a hardly emphatic showing, however, from the highly fancied Moroccans, who sit 97 places higher than the small Indian Ocean nation in the world rankings and had to grind out for the three points in rainy conditions at Rabat's national stadium.
Nervy Beginning and Missed Opportunities
The hosts failed to convert an first-half penalty and were goalless at half-time even with dominating the ball, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 11th minute of the second half.
It arrived after Noussair Mazraoui did well to keep the ball in play before laying it square for Díaz to sidefoot into the net.
Every first match is never easy but we improved in the second period,” said manager Regragui.
El Kaabi's Piece of Brilliance
Any lingering nerves was then eased by a moment of sheer individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes after his introduction, the striker met a cross with a stunning overhead kick in the 74th minute, doubling and ensuring the result.
Earlier in the match, the hosts could have been the lead in the 11th minute after a penalty was awarded for a foul on Díaz. However, Soufiane Rahimi effort was kept out by keeper Yannick Pandor.
Comoros Resistance and Second-Half Chance
Comoros comfortably held Morocco at bay until the Moroccans' individual talent eventually made the difference.
Goalkeeper Pandor made several further fine saves to limit the scoreline as the match progressed, even though his team created a chance for an equalizer shortly following the first goal, with Saïd shooting straight at keeper Bounou.
Fitness Worry for Morocco
The three points was partially overshadowed by an injury to Morocco's skipper, Saïss, who limped off after the first half apparently in tears.
The centre-back had just returned to the national side last month after a lengthy layoff caused by ankle surgery.
The win continues the team's historic run of consecutive victories to 19, beating the previous best of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.
