El Kaabi's Stunning Goal Wraps Up The Atlas Lions' Triumph Against Comoros in Afcon Opener.
The the Moroccan side shook off a nervy start to defeat their island opponents in the competition's first match on the weekend, with goals from the Real Madrid attacker and substitute Ayoub El Kaabi in the latter period.
It was a hardly emphatic display, however, from the highly fancied hosts, who are ranked 97 places higher than the small island nation in the world rankings and were forced to work tirelessly for the points in rainy conditions at Rabat's national stadium.
Tense Beginning and Missed Chances
Morocco failed to convert an early spot-kick and were locked at 0-0 at the interval even with controlling the ball, finally opening the scoring in the 55th minute.
The goal arrived after Noussair Mazraoui showed great skill to keep the ball in play before laying it square for Díaz to sidefoot into the net.
Every first match is always difficult but we delivered in the second period,” commented manager Walid Regragui.
The Substitute's Moment of Magic
Any lingering nerves was subsequently calmed by a piece of sheer individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Only ten minutes following his introduction, the striker met a cross with a spectacular bicycle kick in the 74th minute, doubling and ensuring the win.
Earlier in the match, the hosts might have taken ahead in the 11th minute after a penalty was given for a challenge on Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi effort was saved by keeper Yannick Pandor.
Comoros Resistance and Late Opportunity
Comoros comfortably held their more illustrious opponents at bay until the Moroccans' superior firepower eventually made the difference.
Shot-stopper Yannick Pandor made a number of other fine saves to keep down the score as the game wore on, although Comoros did have a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly after Díaz's goal, with Saïd shooting directly into keeper Yassine Bounou.
Fitness Concern for Hosts
The three points was somewhat overshadowed by an apparent injury to the skipper, Saïss, who was forced off in the first half apparently in tears.
This defender had just returned to the international setup last month after a lengthy absence caused by ankle surgery.
The win continues Morocco's historic run of consecutive wins to 19, surpassing the previous record of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.
