El Kaabi's Spectacular Strike Secures Morocco's Victory Against Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations First Game.
The Morocco overcame a nervy beginning to beat Comoros in the competition's inaugural fixture on the weekend, after strikes by the Real Madrid attacker and substitute El Kaabi in the latter period.
It was a far from convincing performance, however, from the strongly favored hosts, who are ranked 97 places higher than the small island nation in the world rankings and had to work tirelessly for the victory in wet conditions at Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Tense Start and Spurned Chances
Morocco failed to convert an first-half spot-kick and were locked at 0-0 at half-time despite controlling the ball, finally opening the scoring in the 11th minute of the second half.
The goal came when Noussair Mazraoui did well to keep the ball in play before slipping it across for Díaz to sidefoot home.
Every first match is always difficult but we improved in the second period,” said Morocco coach Regragui.
El Kaabi's Piece of Brilliance
Any lingering nerves was then extinguished by a piece of sheer genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Only ten minutes following coming on, the striker connected with a ball into the box with a stunning overhead kick in the 74th minute, doubling and ensuring the win.
Before that, the Moroccan team might have taken ahead in the 11th minute after a penalty was awarded for a challenge on Díaz. However, Rahimi's effort was saved by keeper Yannick Pandor.
The Visitors' Defiant Stand and Late Opportunity
Comoros comfortably held Morocco at bay before the Moroccans' superior firepower in the end made the difference.
Shot-stopper Yannick Pandor made several further good stops to keep down the scoreline as the match wore on, although Comoros created a chance for an equaliser shortly following the first goal, with Saïd firing directly into Morocco goalkeeper Bounou.
Fitness Concern for Morocco
The victory was partially overshadowed by an apparent injury to Morocco's skipper, Saïss, who was forced off after the 18th minute apparently in some distress.
This defender had just returned to the international setup recently following a year’s layoff caused by ankle surgery.
This result extends Morocco's historic run of consecutive wins to nineteen, surpassing the old record of 15 set by the Spanish national team between 2008 and 2009.
