El Kaabi's Stunning Strike Caps The Atlas Lions' Victory Against Comoros in Afcon Opener.
Host nation the Moroccan side shook off a jittery beginning to defeat their island opponents in the tournament's opening game on Sunday, after strikes by the Real Madrid attacker and super-sub El Kaabi in the latter period.
This constituted a far from convincing display, however, from the heavily tipped Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places above the tiny Indian Ocean nation in the world rankings and were forced to work tirelessly for the victory in rainy conditions at Rabat's national stadium.
Tense Start and Spurned Opportunities
The hosts missed an first-half spot-kick and were locked at 0-0 at the interval even with dominating possession, finally breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
The goal came when full-back Mazraoui did well to keep the ball in play before slipping it square for Díaz to sidefoot home.
Every opening game is always difficult but we delivered in the second period,” commented manager Walid Regragui.
El Kaabi's Moment of Magic
The tension was subsequently extinguished by a moment of pure genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Only 10 minutes after his introduction, the striker connected with a ball into the box with a stunning bicycle kick in the 74th minute, making it two and ensuring the win.
Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team could have been ahead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was awarded for a challenge on Díaz. Yet, Rahimi's penalty was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.
The Visitors' Resistance and Late Chance
The underdogs comfortably held Morocco for long periods until the hosts' individual talent eventually made the difference.
Shot-stopper Pandor pulled off a number of further fine saves to keep down the score as the match progressed, although Comoros did have a chance for an equalizer shortly following Díaz's goal, with Saïd firing straight at keeper Yassine Bounou.
Injury Concern for Hosts
The three points was partially marred by an apparent injury to the skipper, Saïss, who was forced off in the first half in some distress.
This centre-back had just returned to the international setup recently following a lengthy layoff due to ankle surgery.
The win extends Morocco's historic run of successive victories to 19, surpassing the previous best of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.
