Ayoub El Kaabi's Spectacular Finish Secures The Atlas Lions' Win Over Comoros in Afcon First Game.
Host nation Morocco overcame a jittery beginning to overcome their island opponents in the tournament's opening game on the weekend, after strikes by Brahim Díaz and substitute Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
It was a far from convincing showing, though, from the heavily tipped hosts, who are ranked 97 places above the small island nation in the world rankings and were forced to grind out for the three points in rainy conditions at the Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Nervy Start and Missed Opportunities
The hosts failed to convert an early penalty and were goalless at the interval despite controlling the ball, eventually opening the scoring in the 55th minute.
It arrived after full-back Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before laying it square for Díaz to sidefoot home.
Every first match is always difficult but we delivered in the second period,” commented Morocco coach Regragui.
The Substitute's Moment of Brilliance
Any lingering nerves was then calmed by a moment of pure individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes following coming on, the forward met a ball into the box with a stunning bicycle kick in the 74th minute, doubling and sealing the result.
Before that, the Moroccan team might have taken the lead in the 11th minute after a spot-kick was awarded for a foul on Brahim Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi effort was saved by keeper Pandor.
The Visitors' Defiant Stand and Second-Half Opportunity
The underdogs stoutly defended against their more illustrious opponents for long periods until the hosts' greater quality in the end made the difference.
Shot-stopper Pandor pulled off a number of further fine saves to keep down the score as the game wore on, although his team created a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly after the first goal, with Rafiki Saïd firing directly into keeper Yassine Bounou.
Fitness Concern for Hosts
The victory was partially marred by an injury to Morocco's skipper, Romain Saïss, who was forced off after the 18th minute in tears.
The defender had only returned to the international setup recently following a year’s layoff due to ankle surgery.
This result continues Morocco's historic run of successive wins to nineteen, surpassing the previous record of 15 set by the Spanish national team from 2008 and 2009.
