Ayoub El Kaabi's Breathtaking Goal Caps Morocco's Triumph Against the Coelacanths in Afcon Opener.
The the Moroccan side overcame a jittery start to overcome Comoros in the tournament's first match on the weekend, with goals from Brahim Díaz and substitute Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
This constituted a hardly emphatic showing, however, from the highly fancied Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places above the small island nation in the world rankings and had to work tirelessly for the three points in rainy conditions at the national stadium.
Tense Start and Spurned Opportunities
Morocco missed an early spot-kick and were goalless at half-time despite dominating the ball, finally breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
The goal arrived after Noussair Mazraoui did well to keep the ball in play before slipping it across for Brahim Díaz to calmly pass home.
“The first match is invariably tough but we delivered in the second half,” commented manager Walid Regragui.
El Kaabi's Moment of Magic
The tension was subsequently eased by a piece of sheer genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just ten minutes following his introduction, the striker connected with a cross with a spectacular bicycle kick in the 74th minute, making it two and ensuring the win.
Before that, the hosts could have been the lead in the 11th minute when a penalty was given for a challenge on Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi penalty was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor.
The Visitors' Defiant Stand and Late Chance
The underdogs stoutly defended against Morocco for long periods before the hosts' superior firepower eventually made the difference.
Goalkeeper Yannick Pandor made a number of further fine saves to keep down the scoreline as the game progressed, although his team created a chance for an equaliser shortly after Díaz's goal, with Rafiki Saïd shooting directly into keeper Bounou.
Fitness Worry for Morocco
The three points was somewhat overshadowed by an injury to the skipper, Saïss, who was forced off in the first half in tears.
This defender had only returned to the international setup recently after a year’s layoff due to ankle surgery.
This result continues Morocco's historic run of consecutive victories to nineteen, surpassing the previous best of 15 set by the Spanish national team between 2008 and 2009.
