El Kaabi's Stunning Goal Secures The Atlas Lions' Win Over the Coelacanths in Afcon First Game.
The Morocco shook off a nervy beginning to defeat Comoros in the tournament's inaugural fixture on the weekend, with goals from Brahim Díaz and substitute El Kaabi in the latter period.
It was a less than dominant showing, though, from the highly fancied hosts, who sit 97 places higher than the small island nation in the world rankings and were forced to work tirelessly for the three points in rainy conditions at Rabat's national stadium.
Nervy Beginning and Spurned Chances
Morocco missed an first-half penalty and were goalless at the interval even with dominating possession, finally breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
It came when full-back Mazraoui showed great skill to prevent the ball from going out before laying it square for Díaz to sidefoot home.
Every opening game is never easy but we improved in the second half,” said manager Walid Regragui.
El Kaabi's Piece of Brilliance
Any lingering nerves was then extinguished by a moment of sheer genius from substitute El Kaabi. Only ten minutes following coming on, the striker connected with a cross with a acrobatic overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the win.
Before that, the Moroccan team could have been ahead in the 11th minute when a penalty was awarded for a challenge on Díaz. However, Rahimi's penalty was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor.
Comoros Resistance and Second-Half Chance
Comoros stoutly defended against their more illustrious opponents for long periods before the hosts' individual talent eventually made the difference.
Goalkeeper Pandor made several further fine saves to limit the scoreline as the match progressed, although his team did have a chance for an equalizer shortly after the first goal, with Rafiki Saïd firing straight at keeper Bounou.
Fitness Concern for Morocco
The victory was somewhat marred by an apparent injury to the captain, Saïss, who limped off in the first half apparently in tears.
This centre-back had just returned to the international setup last month following a year’s absence caused by ankle surgery.
This result continues the team's record-breaking run of consecutive victories to nineteen, beating the previous record of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.
