El Kaabi's Stunning Goal Caps Morocco's Win Against the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations Opening Match.
Host nation the Moroccan side overcame a nervy beginning to defeat their island opponents in the tournament's opening game on Sunday, after strikes by the Real Madrid attacker and substitute Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
It was a less than dominant performance, though, from the strongly favored Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places higher than the small island nation in the world rankings and were forced to toil hard for the points in wet conditions at the Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Nervy Start and Missed Chances
The hosts missed an early spot-kick and were locked at 0-0 at half-time even with controlling possession, eventually opening the scoring in the 55th minute.
The goal came when full-back Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before slipping it square for Brahim Díaz to sidefoot into the net.
“The opening game is always difficult but we delivered in the second period,” said Morocco coach Regragui.
El Kaabi's Piece of Magic
Any lingering nerves was then calmed by a moment of sheer genius from substitute El Kaabi. Only ten minutes after coming on, the striker met a ball into the box with a stunning overhead kick in the 74th minute, doubling and ensuring the win.
Before that, the hosts might have taken ahead in the 11th minute after a penalty was awarded for a foul on Brahim Díaz. However, Soufiane Rahimi effort was saved by keeper Pandor.
Comoros Resistance and Late Opportunity
Comoros comfortably held their more illustrious opponents at bay until the hosts' individual talent in the end told.
Goalkeeper Pandor pulled off several further fine saves to limit the score as the match progressed, although Comoros created a chance for an equalizer shortly following the first goal, with Rafiki Saïd shooting straight at Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.
Fitness Concern for Hosts
The victory was somewhat overshadowed by an injury to Morocco's skipper, Romain Saïss, who limped off in the 18th minute in some distress.
This defender had just returned to the international setup last month after a lengthy absence due to a serious ankle operation.
The win continues the team's record-breaking run of consecutive wins to 19, beating the previous record of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.
