El Kaabi's Stunning Goal Wraps Up Morocco's Victory Over Comoros in Afcon First Game.
Host nation the Moroccan side overcame a nervy start to overcome Comoros in the competition's inaugural fixture on Sunday, after strikes by the Real Madrid attacker and super-sub El Kaabi in the second half.
It was a less than dominant display, however, from the heavily tipped hosts, who are ranked 97 places above the tiny island nation in the world rankings and had to work tirelessly for the victory in rainy conditions at the Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Tense Start and Spurned Chances
Morocco missed an early penalty and were goalless at the interval despite dominating possession, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
It came when full-back Mazraoui showed great skill to prevent the ball from going out before laying it square for Díaz to calmly pass into the net.
Every first match is never easy but we improved in the second half,” commented manager Walid Regragui.
The Substitute's Moment of Magic
The tension was subsequently extinguished by a moment of sheer genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Only ten minutes following his introduction, the striker connected with a cross with a stunning bicycle kick in the 74th minute, doubling and sealing the result.
Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team might have taken ahead in the 11th minute after a spot-kick was awarded for a foul on Díaz. However, Rahimi's penalty was saved by keeper Yannick Pandor.
Comoros Defiant Stand and Late Opportunity
The underdogs stoutly defended against their more illustrious opponents at bay before the hosts' superior firepower in the end made the difference.
Shot-stopper Yannick Pandor pulled off a number of other fine saves to keep down the score as the game wore on, although Comoros did have a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly after Díaz's goal, with Saïd shooting directly into keeper Yassine Bounou.
Injury Concern for Morocco
The three points was partially overshadowed by an apparent 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 following a year’s absence due to a serious ankle operation.
This result continues the team's record-breaking run of consecutive victories to nineteen, surpassing the old best of 15 set by the Spanish national team between 2008 and 2009.
