El Kaabi's Stunning Strike Caps Morocco's Win Over Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations First Game.
The the Moroccan side overcame a anxious beginning to beat Comoros in the competition's first match on Sunday, thanks to Brahim Díaz and substitute El Kaabi in the latter period.
It was a less than dominant showing, though, from the heavily tipped Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places above the small island nation in the world rankings and had to work tirelessly for the three points in rainy conditions at the national stadium.
Tense Start and Spurned Opportunities
The hosts missed an early spot-kick and were goalless at the interval even with controlling possession, finally opening the scoring in the 11th minute of the second half.
The goal arrived after Noussair Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before slipping it square for Brahim Díaz to calmly pass into the net.
Every first match is never easy but we came good in the second half,” commented Morocco coach Regragui.
The Substitute's Moment of Magic
Any lingering nerves was subsequently extinguished by a piece of sheer individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Only 10 minutes after his introduction, the forward connected with a cross with a acrobatic overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and ensuring the result.
Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team could have been the lead in the 11th minute when a penalty was awarded for a foul on Brahim Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi penalty was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.
Comoros Resistance and Second-Half Opportunity
Comoros stoutly defended against Morocco at bay before the Moroccans' superior firepower eventually made the difference.
Shot-stopper Pandor made a number of further fine saves to keep down the score as the game progressed, even though Comoros did have a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly following the first goal, with Saïd firing directly into keeper Yassine Bounou.
Fitness Worry for Morocco
The three points was partially overshadowed by an apparent injury to the skipper, Romain Saïss, who limped off in the 18th minute in tears.
The defender had just returned to the international setup last month after a year’s layoff due to a serious ankle operation.
The win extends the team's historic run of consecutive victories to 19, beating the old record of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.
