Ayoub El Kaabi's Spectacular Strike Wraps Up Morocco's Win Against the Coelacanths in Afcon Opening Match.
The Morocco overcame a jittery beginning to defeat Comoros in the competition's inaugural fixture on the weekend, with goals from the Real Madrid attacker and super-sub El Kaabi in the second half.
It was a less than dominant display, however, from the heavily tipped Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places above the small island nation in the world rankings and were forced to work tirelessly for the three points in rainy conditions at the national stadium.
Tense Start and Spurned Chances
Morocco failed to convert an early spot-kick and were locked at 0-0 at the interval despite dominating possession, finally opening the scoring in the 55th minute.
The goal came when Noussair Mazraoui showed great skill to prevent the ball from going out before slipping it square for Díaz to calmly pass home.
“The first match is always difficult but we delivered in the second half,” commented manager Regragui.
The Substitute's Piece of Magic
The tension was then extinguished by a piece of pure genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Only 10 minutes following his introduction, the striker connected with a ball into the box with a spectacular bicycle kick in the 74th minute, doubling and ensuring the result.
Earlier in the match, the hosts might have taken the lead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was given for a foul on Brahim Díaz. Yet, Rahimi's penalty was kept out by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.
The Visitors' Defiant Stand and Second-Half Opportunity
The underdogs stoutly defended against Morocco for long periods until the hosts' superior firepower eventually made the difference.
Goalkeeper Pandor made several further good stops to limit the scoreline as the match progressed, even though Comoros created a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly following the first goal, with Saïd firing straight at keeper Bounou.
Fitness Worry for Hosts
The three points was somewhat overshadowed by an injury to Morocco's captain, Saïss, who was forced off after the 18th minute in tears.
This centre-back had only made his comeback to the national side last month after a year’s layoff due to ankle surgery.
This result continues the team's historic run of consecutive wins to nineteen, beating the old best of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.
