Ayoub El Kaabi's Stunning Finish Wraps Up Morocco's Win Against the Coelacanths in Afcon Opener.
The the Moroccan side shook off a jittery beginning to defeat their island opponents in the competition's opening game on the weekend, after strikes by Brahim Díaz and super-sub Ayoub El Kaabi in the latter period.
This constituted a less than dominant showing, though, from the highly fancied Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places above the small island nation in the FIFA rankings and were forced to grind out for the three points in rainy conditions at Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Nervy Start and Spurned Chances
Morocco failed to convert an early spot-kick and were locked at 0-0 at half-time despite dominating the ball, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
It came when full-back Mazraoui showed great skill to keep the ball in play before slipping it square for Díaz to sidefoot into the net.
Every opening game is invariably tough but we came good in the second half,” commented Morocco coach Regragui.
El Kaabi's Moment of Brilliance
The tension was subsequently calmed by a moment of sheer genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Only 10 minutes following his introduction, the forward connected with a cross with a stunning overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the result.
Before that, the Moroccan team might have taken ahead in the 11th minute after a penalty was awarded for a challenge on Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi effort was saved by keeper Yannick Pandor.
Comoros Defiant Stand and Second-Half Opportunity
The underdogs comfortably held Morocco for long periods until the hosts' greater quality eventually made the difference.
Shot-stopper Yannick Pandor pulled off a number of further fine saves to keep down the score as the game wore on, even though Comoros created a chance for an equalizer shortly following Díaz's goal, with Rafiki Saïd firing straight at Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.
Injury Worry for Hosts
The three points was somewhat overshadowed by an injury to Morocco's skipper, Romain Saïss, who limped off after the 18th minute apparently in some distress.
The defender had only returned to the international setup last month following a lengthy absence caused by ankle surgery.
This result extends the team's historic run of consecutive victories to nineteen, beating the old best of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.
