Ayoub El Kaabi's Spectacular Finish Caps The Atlas Lions' Win Against Comoros in Afcon First Game.
Host nation the Moroccan side overcame a anxious start to overcome their island opponents in the tournament's first match on Sunday, after strikes by Brahim Díaz and super-sub Ayoub El Kaabi in the latter period.
This constituted a far from convincing display, however, from the strongly favored hosts, who sit 97 places above the tiny island nation in the world rankings and had to grind out for the victory in rainy conditions at the national stadium.
Tense Start and Missed Chances
Morocco missed an first-half penalty and were goalless at the interval despite dominating possession, eventually opening the scoring in the 11th minute of the second half.
It arrived after full-back Mazraoui showed great skill to prevent the ball from going out before laying it across for Díaz to sidefoot home.
Every opening game is never easy but we came good in the second half,” said manager Walid Regragui.
El Kaabi's Piece of Brilliance
The tension was then calmed by a piece of sheer genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just ten minutes after coming on, the forward connected with a cross with a spectacular bicycle kick in the 74th minute, doubling and ensuring the result.
Before that, the Moroccan team could have been ahead in the 11th minute after a penalty was given for a foul on Díaz. However, Soufiane Rahimi effort was kept out by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor.
Comoros Resistance and Second-Half Chance
Comoros stoutly defended against Morocco for long periods until the hosts' greater quality eventually told.
Shot-stopper Yannick Pandor made a number of further fine saves to keep down the scoreline as the match wore on, even though his team did have a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly after the first goal, with Rafiki Saïd firing straight at keeper Yassine Bounou.
Injury Worry for Morocco
The three points was somewhat marred by an apparent injury to the skipper, Romain Saïss, who limped off in the first half in some distress.
This defender had just made his comeback to the national side last month after a year’s absence due to ankle surgery.
This result continues Morocco's record-breaking run of consecutive victories to nineteen, surpassing the old best of 15 set by the Spanish national team between 2008 and 2009.
