El Kaabi's Breathtaking Finish Wraps Up Morocco's Win Against Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations Opener.
The Morocco shook off a nervy beginning to overcome their island opponents in the tournament's first match on the weekend, after strikes by Brahim Díaz and super-sub Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
It was a far from convincing showing, though, from the highly fancied Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places above the small island nation in the world rankings and were forced to toil hard for the victory in wet conditions at the national stadium.
Nervy Beginning and Missed Chances
The hosts missed an first-half spot-kick and were goalless at half-time even with controlling the ball, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 11th minute of the second half.
It arrived after full-back Mazraoui did well to keep the ball in play before slipping it across for Díaz to sidefoot into the net.
“The opening game is never easy but we came good in the second period,” commented Morocco coach Walid Regragui.
El Kaabi's Moment of Magic
Any lingering nerves was then eased by a piece of pure individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just ten minutes following his introduction, the striker met a ball into the box with a stunning overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and ensuring the result.
Earlier in the match, the hosts might have taken ahead in the 11th minute after a spot-kick was given for a foul on Brahim Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi effort was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.
The Visitors' Resistance and Second-Half Chance
Comoros comfortably held their more illustrious opponents for long periods until the hosts' individual talent eventually made the difference.
Shot-stopper Pandor made several other fine saves to keep down the score as the game progressed, although Comoros did have a chance for an equalizer shortly after Díaz's goal, with Rafiki Saïd shooting directly into keeper Yassine Bounou.
Fitness Worry for Morocco
The victory was partially overshadowed by an apparent injury to the captain, Saïss, who limped off after the 18th minute apparently in tears.
This centre-back had just made his comeback to the international setup last month after a lengthy layoff due to ankle surgery.
The win extends the team's historic run of consecutive wins to nineteen, beating the old best of 15 set by the Spanish national team from 2008 and 2009.
