El Kaabi's Stunning Finish Caps Morocco's Win Over the Coelacanths in Afcon Opening Match.
The the Moroccan side shook off a anxious start to beat Comoros in the competition's inaugural fixture on the weekend, with goals from Brahim Díaz and super-sub Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
It was a less than dominant performance, however, from the strongly favored Moroccans, who sit 97 places above the small Indian Ocean nation in the world rankings and were forced to toil hard for the points in rainy conditions at the Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Tense Start and Missed Opportunities
Morocco failed to convert an first-half spot-kick and were goalless at the interval despite controlling possession, finally breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
The goal came when Noussair Mazraoui did well to keep the ball in play before laying it across for Díaz to sidefoot home.
Every first match is never easy but we improved in the second period,” said manager Walid Regragui.
El Kaabi's Moment of Brilliance
The tension was subsequently extinguished by a moment of pure individual brilliance from substitute El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes after his introduction, the forward connected with a cross with a stunning bicycle kick in the 74th minute, doubling and ensuring the win.
Before that, the hosts might have taken ahead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was awarded for a challenge on Díaz. However, Soufiane Rahimi effort was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.
Comoros Defiant Stand and Late Opportunity
Comoros comfortably held their more illustrious opponents at bay before the Moroccans' individual talent eventually made the difference.
Goalkeeper Pandor pulled off several other fine saves to limit the score as the game wore on, although his team did have a chance for an equalizer shortly following Díaz's goal, with Rafiki Saïd shooting straight at keeper Bounou.
Injury Worry for Morocco
The three points was partially marred by an injury to the captain, Romain Saïss, who was forced off in the 18th minute apparently in tears.
The defender had just returned to the national side last month following a year’s layoff caused by ankle surgery.
This result continues the team's record-breaking run of successive victories to 19, surpassing the previous best of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.
