Ayoub El Kaabi's Spectacular Goal Caps Morocco's Win Against Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations First Game.
Host nation Morocco shook off a anxious beginning to defeat their island opponents in the competition's inaugural fixture on Sunday, with goals from the Real Madrid attacker and super-sub Ayoub El Kaabi in the latter period.
This constituted a less than dominant showing, though, from the heavily tipped Moroccans, who sit 97 places higher than the small island nation in the FIFA rankings and had to work tirelessly for the points in wet conditions at the national stadium.
Nervy Beginning and Missed Opportunities
Morocco failed to convert an early penalty and were goalless at the interval even with controlling possession, finally breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
It arrived after Noussair Mazraoui showed great skill to keep the ball in play before slipping it across for Brahim Díaz to sidefoot home.
“The opening game is never easy but we improved in the second half,” said manager Regragui.
El Kaabi's Piece of Magic
The tension was then extinguished by a piece of sheer individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just ten minutes following coming on, the striker met a cross with a spectacular overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and ensuring the win.
Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team might have taken ahead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was awarded for a foul on Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi penalty was kept out by keeper Pandor.
Comoros Resistance and Second-Half Opportunity
Comoros stoutly defended against Morocco for long periods until the hosts' individual talent in the end told.
Goalkeeper Yannick Pandor pulled off a number of other good stops to limit the scoreline as the match wore on, although his team created a chance for an equalizer shortly after the first goal, with Rafiki Saïd shooting directly into keeper Yassine Bounou.
Injury Worry for Hosts
The three points was somewhat overshadowed by an injury to Morocco's captain, Saïss, who was forced off in the first half in tears.
This defender had just made his comeback to the international setup recently following a lengthy absence due to ankle surgery.
This result continues Morocco's record-breaking run of consecutive wins to 19, surpassing the previous best of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.
