El Kaabi's Stunning Finish Wraps Up The Atlas Lions' Win Over Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations Opener.
Host nation Morocco overcame a nervy start to overcome their island opponents in the competition's opening game on Sunday, after strikes by Brahim Díaz and super-sub El Kaabi in the second half.
It was a hardly emphatic performance, though, from the strongly favored hosts, who are ranked 97 places above the tiny island nation in the FIFA rankings and were forced to work tirelessly for the victory in wet conditions at the national stadium.
Tense Beginning and Spurned Chances
The hosts missed an first-half penalty and were locked at 0-0 at half-time even with controlling possession, finally breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
The goal arrived after Noussair Mazraoui did well to keep the ball in play before laying it across for Díaz to calmly pass into the net.
“The first match is invariably tough but we improved in the second period,” commented manager Regragui.
The Substitute's Piece of Brilliance
Any lingering nerves was then extinguished by a piece of pure individual brilliance from substitute El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes after his introduction, the striker met a cross with a spectacular bicycle kick in the 74th minute, making it two and ensuring the result.
Before that, the Moroccan team could have been ahead in the 11th minute when a penalty was given for a foul on Díaz. Yet, Rahimi's effort was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.
The Visitors' Defiant Stand and Second-Half Chance
The underdogs stoutly defended against Morocco at bay until the hosts' individual talent eventually made the difference.
Shot-stopper Pandor made a number of further fine saves to limit the score as the game progressed, although his team did have a chance for an equalizer shortly after Díaz's goal, with Rafiki Saïd shooting straight at Morocco goalkeeper Bounou.
Fitness Worry for Hosts
The victory was somewhat marred by an injury to the captain, Saïss, who limped off in the first half in tears.
This defender had only returned to the national side recently after a year’s absence caused by ankle surgery.
This result extends the team's historic run of consecutive victories to nineteen, surpassing the old best of 15 set by the Spanish national team between 2008 and 2009.
