Ayoub El Kaabi's Spectacular Finish Wraps Up The Atlas Lions' Triumph Against the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations First Game.
The the Moroccan side overcame a anxious beginning to overcome 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, however, from the heavily tipped Moroccans, who sit 97 places higher than the tiny Indian Ocean nation in the world rankings and were forced to toil hard for the points in rainy conditions at Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Nervy Beginning and Missed Opportunities
The hosts missed an early penalty and were goalless at the interval despite dominating the ball, finally breaking the deadlock in the 11th minute of the second half.
The goal came when full-back Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before laying it square for Brahim Díaz to sidefoot into the net.
“The first match is never easy but we delivered in the second half,” commented manager Walid Regragui.
The Substitute's Moment of Brilliance
Any lingering nerves was then eased by a piece of pure genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Only 10 minutes after coming on, the striker connected with a cross with a acrobatic bicycle kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the win.
Earlier in the match, the hosts might have taken the lead in the 11th minute after a penalty was given for a challenge on Brahim Díaz. However, Soufiane Rahimi penalty was saved by keeper Pandor.
Comoros Resistance and Second-Half Chance
The underdogs stoutly defended against their more illustrious opponents at bay before the hosts' superior firepower in the end told.
Shot-stopper Yannick Pandor made a number of other good stops to limit the scoreline as the match progressed, although his team did have a chance for an equaliser shortly after Díaz's goal, with Saïd firing straight at keeper Bounou.
Fitness Worry for Hosts
The victory was partially overshadowed by an apparent injury to the captain, Saïss, who was forced off after the 18th minute apparently in tears.
The centre-back had only returned to the national side recently following a year’s absence caused by ankle surgery.
This result continues Morocco's record-breaking run of successive victories to nineteen, surpassing the old best of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.
