El Kaabi's Spectacular Strike Secures The Atlas Lions' Win Against the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations Opening Match.
Host nation Morocco shook off a anxious start to beat Comoros in the competition's opening game on the weekend, thanks to Brahim Díaz and substitute El Kaabi in the second half.
It was a far from convincing display, though, from the strongly favored Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places above the small island nation in the world rankings and were forced to toil hard for the points in wet conditions at Rabat's national stadium.
Tense Beginning and Missed Chances
The hosts missed an first-half spot-kick and were locked at 0-0 at the interval even with dominating possession, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 11th minute of the second half.
It arrived after full-back Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before slipping it across for Brahim Díaz to calmly pass into the net.
Every first match is always difficult but we came good in the second half,” said manager Walid Regragui.
The Substitute's Piece of Magic
The tension was then calmed by a moment of pure individual brilliance from substitute El Kaabi. Only ten minutes after his introduction, the striker met a cross with a acrobatic bicycle kick in the 74th minute, making it two and ensuring the win.
Before that, the hosts might have taken the lead in the 11th minute after a penalty was awarded for a challenge on Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi effort was kept out by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor.
Comoros Defiant Stand and Second-Half Opportunity
The underdogs comfortably held Morocco at bay until the hosts' individual talent in the end made the difference.
Shot-stopper Yannick Pandor pulled off several further fine saves to keep down the scoreline as the game wore on, even though Comoros did have a chance for an equaliser shortly after Díaz's goal, with Rafiki Saïd firing straight at Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.
Fitness Concern for Hosts
The three points was partially overshadowed by an apparent injury to Morocco's skipper, Saïss, who was forced off after the 18th minute in tears.
This defender had only returned to the national side recently following a year’s layoff due to ankle surgery.
The win extends Morocco's historic run of successive victories to 19, beating the previous record of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.