Ayoub El Kaabi's Stunning Goal Caps Morocco's Win Against Comoros in Afcon Opening Match.
The the Moroccan side overcame a nervy start to defeat their island opponents in the competition's first match on the weekend, thanks to the Real Madrid attacker and substitute El Kaabi in the latter period.
It was a far from convincing performance, however, from the highly fancied Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places higher than the tiny island nation in the world rankings and had to grind out for the points in wet conditions at Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Tense Beginning and Spurned Opportunities
Morocco missed an early spot-kick and were goalless at half-time despite controlling possession, finally breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
It arrived after Noussair Mazraoui showed great skill to prevent the ball from going out before laying it across for Díaz to calmly pass into the net.
Every first match is always difficult but we improved in the second period,” said Morocco coach Walid Regragui.
El Kaabi's Piece of Magic
Any lingering nerves was subsequently eased by a piece of sheer genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just ten minutes after his introduction, the forward met a ball into the box with a spectacular overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and ensuring the result.
Earlier in the match, the hosts could have been the lead in the 11th minute when a penalty was awarded for a challenge on Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi effort was kept out by keeper Yannick Pandor.
Comoros Resistance and Second-Half Opportunity
The underdogs stoutly defended against Morocco for long periods until the hosts' individual talent in the end made the difference.
Goalkeeper Yannick Pandor made several further good stops to limit the score as the game progressed, although his team created a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly following the first goal, with Saïd shooting directly into Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.
Injury Worry for Morocco
The victory was somewhat marred by an injury to the skipper, Romain Saïss, who was forced off after the first half in tears.
This centre-back had just returned to the national side last month following a lengthy absence caused by a serious ankle operation.
This result continues the team's historic run of successive wins to nineteen, surpassing the old record of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.
