Ayoub El Kaabi's Breathtaking Strike Caps Morocco's Victory Over Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations Opener.
The Morocco overcame a nervy beginning to beat their island opponents in the tournament's first match on the weekend, with goals from the Real Madrid attacker and substitute Ayoub El Kaabi in the latter period.
It was a hardly emphatic display, however, from the heavily tipped Moroccans, who sit 97 places higher than the tiny Indian Ocean nation in the world rankings and had to grind out for the victory in wet conditions at the national stadium.
Nervy Beginning and Missed Opportunities
The hosts failed to convert an early spot-kick and were locked at 0-0 at half-time even with controlling possession, eventually opening the scoring in the 55th minute.
It came when full-back Mazraoui showed great skill to keep the ball in play before slipping it square for Brahim Díaz to sidefoot home.
“The opening game is always difficult but we delivered in the second period,” said Morocco coach Walid Regragui.
The Substitute's Piece of Brilliance
The tension was subsequently extinguished by a piece of pure individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Only ten minutes following coming on, the striker connected with a cross with a spectacular 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 when a penalty was given for a foul on Díaz. However, Rahimi's penalty was saved by keeper Yannick Pandor.
Comoros Resistance and Late Chance
Comoros comfortably held their more illustrious opponents for long periods until the hosts' greater quality eventually made the difference.
Goalkeeper Yannick Pandor pulled off a number of other fine saves to limit the score as the match wore on, although his team did have a chance for an equaliser shortly after Díaz's goal, with Rafiki Saïd shooting straight at keeper Bounou.
Fitness Concern for Morocco
The victory was partially overshadowed by an injury to the skipper, Romain Saïss, who limped off in the first half in some distress.
This defender had just returned to the national side recently after a year’s absence caused by ankle surgery.
The win continues the team's record-breaking run of successive wins to 19, beating the previous best of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.