El Kaabi's Breathtaking Finish Caps Morocco's Win Against Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations Opening Match.
The Morocco shook off a anxious start to defeat their island opponents in the tournament's inaugural fixture on the weekend, with goals from the Real Madrid attacker and substitute Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
This constituted a less than dominant performance, though, from the heavily tipped Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places higher than the small island nation in the FIFA rankings and were forced to work tirelessly for the points in wet conditions at the national stadium.
Nervy Beginning and Spurned Opportunities
Morocco missed an first-half penalty and were locked at 0-0 at half-time even with controlling the ball, finally opening the scoring in the 11th minute of the second half.
It arrived after full-back Mazraoui showed great skill to prevent the ball from going out before laying it square for Díaz to sidefoot into the net.
Every first match is invariably tough but we delivered in the second half,” said Morocco coach Walid Regragui.
El Kaabi's Moment of Brilliance
Any lingering nerves was then eased by a moment of pure individual brilliance from substitute El Kaabi. Just ten minutes after coming on, the striker met a ball into the box with a spectacular overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and ensuring the result.
Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team might have taken the lead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was given for a challenge on Díaz. However, Soufiane Rahimi effort was kept out by keeper Yannick Pandor.
Comoros Defiant Stand and Late Chance
Comoros stoutly defended against Morocco at bay before the hosts' individual talent in the end made the difference.
Goalkeeper Pandor made several further good stops to keep down the scoreline as the match progressed, although Comoros created a chance 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 marred by an injury to Morocco's skipper, Romain Saïss, who limped off in the 18th minute in some distress.
The centre-back had just returned to the national side last month following a year’s absence due to ankle surgery.
The win continues the team's record-breaking run of consecutive wins to nineteen, beating the old best of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.
