El Kaabi's Spectacular Strike Wraps Up The Atlas Lions' Win Against the Coelacanths in Afcon Opening Match.
The the Moroccan side overcame a anxious beginning to overcome Comoros in the competition's first match on the weekend, thanks to Brahim Díaz and substitute El Kaabi in the latter period.
It was a far from convincing display, though, from the highly fancied Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places above the tiny Indian Ocean nation in the world rankings and were forced to work tirelessly for the points in wet conditions at Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Tense Start and Missed Chances
The hosts missed an early penalty and were goalless at the interval despite dominating the ball, finally opening the scoring in the 11th minute of the second half.
The goal arrived after full-back Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before laying it across for Díaz to calmly pass home.
“The first match is never easy but we improved in the second period,” commented manager Regragui.
El Kaabi's Piece of Magic
Any lingering nerves was then calmed by a piece of pure genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Only ten minutes after his introduction, the forward met a ball into the box with a stunning overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the win.
Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team could have been ahead in the 11th minute after a penalty was awarded for a challenge on Díaz. However, Soufiane Rahimi penalty was saved by keeper Yannick Pandor.
Comoros Defiant Stand and Second-Half Opportunity
Comoros stoutly defended against Morocco at bay until the hosts' superior firepower eventually made the difference.
Goalkeeper Pandor made several further fine saves to limit the score as the match progressed, even though Comoros created a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly following Díaz's goal, with Rafiki Saïd shooting directly into Morocco goalkeeper Bounou.
Fitness Concern for Morocco
The three points was somewhat overshadowed by an apparent injury to the skipper, Saïss, who limped off in the 18th minute apparently in tears.
The defender had only made his comeback to the international setup last month after a year’s layoff caused by ankle surgery.
The win extends Morocco's historic run of successive victories to nineteen, surpassing the previous best of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.
