Ayoub El Kaabi's Spectacular Goal Secures The Atlas Lions' Win Against Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations Opener.
The the Moroccan side shook off a anxious start to overcome Comoros in the tournament's first match on Sunday, after strikes by the Real Madrid attacker and super-sub El Kaabi in the latter period.
This constituted a less than dominant showing, however, from the heavily tipped hosts, who are ranked 97 places above the small Indian Ocean nation in the FIFA rankings and were forced to toil hard for the victory in rainy conditions at the Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Tense Start and Missed Chances
The hosts missed an early spot-kick and were goalless at the interval despite controlling the ball, finally breaking the deadlock in the 11th minute of the second half.
It came when Noussair Mazraoui showed great skill to prevent the ball from going out before laying it square for Brahim Díaz to sidefoot into the net.
Every opening game is never easy but we delivered in the second half,” said manager Walid Regragui.
The Substitute's Moment of Brilliance
The tension was then calmed by a moment of sheer genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Only ten minutes after coming on, the striker met a ball into the box with a acrobatic bicycle kick in the 74th minute, making it two and ensuring the win.
Before that, the Moroccan team might have taken the lead in the 11th minute after a penalty was awarded for a foul on Brahim Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi effort was kept out by keeper Yannick Pandor.
Comoros Resistance and Second-Half Chance
The underdogs comfortably held Morocco for long periods before the Moroccans' individual talent eventually made the difference.
Goalkeeper Pandor made several further fine saves to keep down the score as the match progressed, although his team did have a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly following the first goal, with Saïd firing directly into keeper Bounou.
Fitness Concern for Hosts
The three points was partially marred by an apparent injury to Morocco's captain, Romain Saïss, who limped off after the first half in tears.
The defender had only returned to the international setup recently following a lengthy layoff due to a serious ankle operation.
This result continues Morocco's record-breaking run of successive wins to nineteen, surpassing the old best of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.
