El Kaabi's Stunning Strike Wraps Up Morocco's Victory Against Comoros in Afcon First Game.
The Morocco overcame a jittery start to beat their island opponents in the tournament's first match on the weekend, with goals from Brahim Díaz and super-sub El Kaabi in the latter period.
It was a less than dominant display, however, from the strongly favored hosts, who are ranked 97 places above the tiny island nation in the FIFA rankings and had to grind out for the victory in wet conditions at the Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Nervy Beginning and Spurned Chances
Morocco failed to convert an first-half spot-kick and were locked at 0-0 at the interval despite dominating 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 square for Díaz to calmly pass home.
Every first match is never easy but we delivered in the second half,” said manager Walid Regragui.
El Kaabi's Moment of Brilliance
The tension was then calmed by a moment of pure individual brilliance from substitute El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes after coming on, the striker connected with a ball into the box with a spectacular bicycle kick in the 74th minute, doubling and sealing the win.
Earlier in the match, the hosts could have been the lead in the 11th minute after a spot-kick was given for a challenge on Brahim Díaz. However, Soufiane Rahimi effort was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.
The Visitors' Resistance and Late Chance
The underdogs stoutly defended against their more illustrious opponents at bay until the hosts' individual talent in the end made the difference.
Shot-stopper Yannick Pandor pulled off several other fine saves to limit the scoreline as the match wore on, although his team did have a chance for an equalizer shortly following Díaz's goal, with Saïd shooting straight at Morocco goalkeeper Bounou.
Injury Worry for Hosts
The victory was partially marred by an apparent injury to the captain, Saïss, who was forced off in the 18th minute in tears.
The centre-back had just returned to the international setup last month following a lengthy layoff caused by a serious ankle operation.
This result extends Morocco's historic run of consecutive victories to nineteen, surpassing the previous record of 15 set by the Spanish national team between 2008 and 2009.