El Kaabi's Stunning Goal Caps Morocco's Win Against Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations Opening Match.
Host nation Morocco shook off a jittery beginning to defeat Comoros in the tournament's inaugural fixture on Sunday, with goals from the Real Madrid attacker and super-sub El Kaabi in the second half.
This constituted a less than dominant display, though, from the highly fancied hosts, who sit 97 places higher than the small Indian Ocean nation in the FIFA rankings and had to grind out for the points in rainy conditions at Rabat's national stadium.
Nervy Beginning and Spurned Opportunities
The hosts missed an early penalty and were locked at 0-0 at the interval despite dominating possession, finally breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
The goal arrived after full-back Mazraoui showed great skill to prevent the ball from going out before slipping it square for Díaz to sidefoot home.
“The opening game is always difficult but we delivered in the second half,” said manager Regragui.
The Substitute's Piece of Magic
The tension was then calmed by a piece of sheer genius from substitute El Kaabi. Just ten minutes after coming on, the forward met a cross with a spectacular overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and ensuring the result.
Before that, the hosts could have been the lead in the 11th minute when a penalty was awarded for a challenge on Brahim Díaz. Yet, Rahimi's effort was kept out by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.
The Visitors' Defiant Stand and Late Chance
Comoros comfortably held Morocco at bay before the hosts' greater quality eventually made the difference.
Shot-stopper Yannick Pandor pulled off several other fine saves to limit the score as the game wore on, although Comoros did have a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly after Díaz's goal, with Rafiki Saïd shooting straight at keeper Bounou.
Fitness Worry for Morocco
The three points was partially marred by an injury to Morocco's skipper, Romain Saïss, who was forced off in the first half apparently in tears.
This centre-back had only made his comeback to the national side recently after a lengthy layoff due to a serious ankle operation.
The win continues Morocco's record-breaking run of successive victories to nineteen, surpassing the previous record of 15 set by the Spanish national team between 2008 and 2009.
