El Kaabi's Spectacular Strike Caps The Atlas Lions' Win Against Comoros in Afcon First Game.
The the Moroccan side shook off a anxious beginning to defeat Comoros in the competition's inaugural fixture on the weekend, thanks to the Real Madrid attacker and super-sub El Kaabi in the latter period.
It was a less than dominant performance, however, from the heavily tipped hosts, who are ranked 97 places higher than the tiny island nation in the world rankings and had to toil hard for the three points in wet conditions at the Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Nervy Beginning and Missed Chances
The hosts missed an early spot-kick and were locked at 0-0 at half-time even with dominating the ball, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 11th minute of the second half.
The goal came when Noussair Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before laying it across for Díaz to sidefoot into the net.
“The opening game is invariably tough but we delivered in the second period,” said Morocco coach Regragui.
El Kaabi's Piece of Magic
Any lingering nerves was then eased by a piece of sheer individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Only 10 minutes after his introduction, the forward connected with a ball into the box with a stunning overhead kick in the 74th minute, doubling and sealing the result.
Before that, the hosts might have taken the lead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was given for a challenge on Brahim Díaz. However, Soufiane Rahimi penalty was kept out by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor.
Comoros Resistance and Late Chance
Comoros comfortably held their more illustrious opponents for long periods until the Moroccans' individual talent in the end told.
Shot-stopper Pandor pulled off several other fine saves to limit the scoreline as the match wore on, even though his team created a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly following Díaz's goal, with Saïd firing straight at keeper Bounou.
Fitness Concern for Morocco
The victory was partially marred by an injury to Morocco's skipper, Saïss, who was forced off in the 18th minute apparently in tears.
This centre-back had only made his comeback to the international setup last month following a year’s layoff caused by a serious ankle operation.
The win continues Morocco's historic run of successive victories to 19, surpassing the old best of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.
