El Kaabi's Spectacular Strike Caps Morocco's Win Over the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations Opener.
Host nation the Moroccan side overcame a jittery beginning to defeat their island opponents in the tournament's first match on the weekend, thanks to the Real Madrid attacker and substitute El Kaabi in the latter period.
This constituted a far from convincing showing, though, from the strongly favored Moroccans, who sit 97 places above the tiny Indian Ocean nation in the FIFA rankings and had to grind out for the victory in rainy conditions at Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Nervy Start and Missed Opportunities
Morocco failed to convert an first-half penalty and were locked at 0-0 at the interval even with dominating possession, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
The goal came when full-back Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before slipping it across for Brahim Díaz to sidefoot home.
“The first match is never easy but we came good in the second half,” commented manager Walid Regragui.
El Kaabi's Piece of Brilliance
Any lingering nerves was then eased by a piece of pure individual brilliance from substitute El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes following his introduction, the forward met a cross with a spectacular bicycle kick in the 74th minute, making it two and ensuring the result.
Before that, the hosts might have taken the lead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was awarded for a foul on Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi penalty was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.
The Visitors' Resistance and Late Opportunity
Comoros comfortably held Morocco at bay until the hosts' individual talent eventually made the difference.
Shot-stopper Pandor pulled off a number of further fine saves to keep down the scoreline as the match progressed, although Comoros did have a chance for an equaliser shortly after the first goal, with Rafiki Saïd firing directly into Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.
Injury Worry for Hosts
The victory was partially overshadowed by an injury to Morocco's captain, Romain Saïss, who limped off in the first half in tears.
This defender had just made his comeback to the international setup last month after a lengthy absence caused by ankle surgery.
The win continues Morocco's historic run of consecutive wins to nineteen, beating the old record of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.
