El Kaabi's Breathtaking Finish Caps Morocco's Win Over the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations Opener.
The the Moroccan side shook off a nervy beginning to defeat Comoros in the tournament's first match on the weekend, after strikes by Brahim Díaz and substitute El Kaabi in the latter period.
This constituted a hardly emphatic display, though, from the strongly favored Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places higher than the small Indian Ocean nation in the FIFA rankings and were forced to work tirelessly for the three points in wet conditions at Rabat's national stadium.
Tense Beginning and Missed Opportunities
The hosts failed to convert an first-half spot-kick and were locked at 0-0 at half-time even with dominating possession, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
It came when full-back Mazraoui showed great skill to keep the ball in play before laying it across for Díaz to sidefoot into the net.
“The first match is invariably tough but we came good in the second period,” said Morocco coach Regragui.
El Kaabi's Piece of Magic
Any lingering nerves was subsequently calmed by a piece of sheer individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Only ten minutes after coming on, the forward connected with a cross with a stunning bicycle kick in the 74th minute, doubling and ensuring the result.
Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team could have been ahead in the 11th minute after a penalty was awarded for a challenge on Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi effort was kept out by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor.
The Visitors' Resistance and Late Chance
Comoros comfortably held Morocco at bay before the hosts' greater quality in the end told.
Shot-stopper Pandor pulled off several other good stops to keep down the scoreline as the game progressed, although his team created a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly following Díaz's goal, with Rafiki Saïd shooting straight at keeper Bounou.
Injury Worry for Morocco
The three points was somewhat marred by an apparent injury to the skipper, Saïss, who was forced off in the first half apparently in some distress.
This defender had only made his comeback to the international setup last month after a year’s layoff caused by ankle surgery.
This result continues Morocco's historic run of consecutive victories to nineteen, beating the previous record of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.
