El Kaabi's Stunning Finish Wraps Up The Atlas Lions' Triumph Against the Coelacanths in Afcon First Game.
Host nation the Moroccan side shook off a jittery start to defeat their island opponents in the tournament's first match on the weekend, thanks to the Real Madrid attacker and super-sub Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
It was a hardly emphatic performance, however, from the heavily tipped Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places higher than the tiny Indian Ocean nation in the FIFA rankings and had to work tirelessly for the three points in rainy conditions at Rabat's national stadium.
Nervy Beginning and Missed Chances
Morocco missed an first-half spot-kick and were goalless at half-time even with dominating possession, finally opening the scoring in the 11th minute of the second half.
It came when full-back Mazraoui showed great skill to keep the ball in play before slipping it square for Brahim DĂaz to sidefoot home.
“The opening game is always difficult but we delivered in the second half,” commented Morocco coach Regragui.
The Substitute's Moment of Brilliance
Any lingering nerves was then extinguished by a piece of pure genius from substitute El Kaabi. Only 10 minutes after coming on, the forward connected with a cross with a stunning bicycle kick in the 74th minute, doubling and ensuring the win.
Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team could have been ahead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was given for a challenge on DĂaz. Yet, Rahimi's effort was kept out by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.
Comoros Resistance and Late Chance
The underdogs comfortably held Morocco at bay until the Moroccans' greater quality eventually made the difference.
Shot-stopper Yannick Pandor pulled off several other fine saves to limit the scoreline as the game wore on, even though Comoros created a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly after DĂaz's goal, with SaĂŻd firing straight at keeper Bounou.
Fitness Concern for Hosts
The three points was somewhat marred by an apparent injury to the captain, SaĂŻss, who limped off in the 18th minute in tears.
The defender had just made his comeback to the national side recently following a lengthy layoff due to ankle surgery.
The win continues the team's historic run of successive wins to 19, beating the previous best of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.
