El Kaabi's Breathtaking Finish Wraps Up The Atlas Lions' Triumph Over the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations Opener.
Host nation the Moroccan side shook off a anxious start to overcome Comoros in the tournament's first match on Sunday, after strikes by the Real Madrid attacker and super-sub Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
This constituted a less than dominant display, though, from the strongly favored Moroccans, who sit 97 places higher than the tiny 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 Missed Opportunities
Morocco missed an first-half penalty and were locked at 0-0 at the interval even with dominating possession, eventually opening the scoring in the 55th minute.
It arrived after Noussair Mazraoui did well to keep the ball in play before slipping it square for Brahim DĂaz to calmly pass into the net.
“The opening game is invariably tough but we improved in the second half,” commented Morocco coach Regragui.
El Kaabi's Piece of Brilliance
Any lingering nerves was subsequently eased by a piece of pure individual brilliance from substitute El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes following coming on, the striker connected with a ball into the box with a stunning overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the win.
Before that, the Moroccan team could have been the lead in the 11th minute after a penalty was given for a foul on Brahim DĂaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi effort was kept out by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor.
Comoros Resistance and Late Opportunity
Comoros comfortably held their more illustrious opponents for long periods before the Moroccans' individual talent eventually made the difference.
Goalkeeper Yannick Pandor pulled off several further fine saves to limit the score as the game progressed, although Comoros did have a chance for an equalizer shortly after the first goal, with SaĂŻd shooting directly into keeper Bounou.
Fitness Concern for Hosts
The three points was partially overshadowed by an injury to Morocco's skipper, SaĂŻss, who limped off after the 18th minute in some distress.
This defender had just returned to the international setup recently after a year’s layoff due to ankle surgery.
This result continues the team's record-breaking run of successive victories to 19, surpassing the old best of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.
