Ayoub El Kaabi's Spectacular Goal Secures The Atlas Lions' Victory Over Comoros in Afcon Opener.
Host nation the Moroccan side shook off a nervy start to defeat their island opponents in the tournament's inaugural fixture on the weekend, with goals from Brahim Díaz and super-sub Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
It was a far from convincing showing, however, from the highly fancied hosts, who sit 97 places above the tiny island nation in the world rankings and had to work tirelessly for the points in rainy conditions at the Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Nervy Beginning and Missed Chances
Morocco missed an first-half penalty and were goalless at half-time despite controlling possession, finally breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
The goal came when Noussair Mazraoui showed great skill to prevent the ball from going out before laying it across for Brahim Díaz to sidefoot home.
“The opening game is invariably tough but we improved in the second half,” said Morocco coach Walid Regragui.
The Substitute's Moment of Brilliance
Any lingering nerves was subsequently extinguished by a moment of sheer individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just ten minutes following his introduction, the striker met a cross with a acrobatic overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the win.
Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team might have taken the lead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was awarded for a foul on Brahim Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi penalty was kept out by keeper Pandor.
The Visitors' Resistance and Second-Half Chance
Comoros comfortably held Morocco at bay until the hosts' superior firepower in the end made the difference.
Shot-stopper Yannick Pandor pulled off several further good stops to limit the scoreline as the game progressed, even though Comoros created a chance for an equaliser shortly after Díaz's goal, with Saïd firing straight at keeper Bounou.
Injury Concern for Hosts
The victory was somewhat marred by an injury to Morocco's captain, Saïss, who limped off in the first half in some distress.
The defender had only made his comeback to the national side recently after a lengthy layoff caused by ankle surgery.
The win continues the team's record-breaking run of consecutive wins to nineteen, surpassing the old best of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.
