El Kaabi's Spectacular Strike Secures Morocco's Victory Over Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations Opening Match.
Host nation the Moroccan side shook off a nervy beginning to defeat their island opponents in the competition's inaugural fixture on the weekend, after strikes by Brahim Díaz and super-sub El Kaabi in the second half.
This constituted a far from convincing showing, however, from the highly fancied Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places above the small Indian Ocean nation in the world rankings and had to work tirelessly for the victory in wet conditions at Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Tense Beginning and Spurned Chances
The hosts failed to convert an early spot-kick and were locked at 0-0 at half-time despite controlling the ball, eventually opening the scoring in the 11th minute of the second half.
The goal arrived after Noussair Mazraoui showed great skill to keep the ball in play before slipping it square for Brahim Díaz to calmly pass home.
Every first match is always difficult but we delivered in the second half,” commented manager Regragui.
The Substitute's Piece of Magic
Any lingering nerves was subsequently eased by a piece of pure individual brilliance from substitute El Kaabi. Only 10 minutes after his introduction, the striker 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 given for a foul on Díaz. Yet, Rahimi's penalty was kept out by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.
The Visitors' Defiant Stand and Second-Half Chance
Comoros comfortably held Morocco for long periods until the hosts' individual talent eventually told.
Shot-stopper Yannick Pandor made several further fine saves to keep down the score as the match wore on, although his team did have a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly after the first goal, with Saïd shooting straight at Morocco goalkeeper Bounou.
Injury Worry for Morocco
The three points was somewhat marred by an injury to the skipper, Romain Saïss, who was forced off after the 18th minute in some distress.
The centre-back had just made his comeback to the national side last month after a lengthy absence caused by a serious ankle operation.
This result continues the team's record-breaking run of consecutive victories to 19, surpassing the old best of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.
