Ayoub El Kaabi's Stunning Finish Wraps Up Morocco's Triumph Over Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations Opener.
The the Moroccan side shook off a nervy beginning to beat their island opponents in the competition's opening game on Sunday, thanks to the Real Madrid attacker and super-sub El Kaabi in the second half.
It was a less than dominant display, though, from the heavily tipped Moroccans, who sit 97 places higher than the small island nation in the world rankings and had to work tirelessly for the points in rainy conditions at the national stadium.
Tense Beginning and Missed Opportunities
The hosts missed an early spot-kick and were goalless at half-time even with dominating the ball, eventually opening the scoring in the 55th minute.
The goal arrived after Noussair Mazraoui showed great skill to prevent the ball from going out before slipping it across for Díaz to calmly pass into the net.
Every opening game is invariably tough but we came good in the second half,” commented manager Walid Regragui.
The Substitute's Piece of Magic
Any lingering nerves was then eased by a moment of pure genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just ten minutes after his introduction, the forward met a ball into the box with a acrobatic bicycle kick in the 74th minute, doubling and sealing the win.
Earlier in the match, the hosts could have been ahead in the 11th minute after a penalty was given for a challenge on Díaz. However, Soufiane Rahimi effort was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.
Comoros Defiant Stand and Second-Half Opportunity
Comoros comfortably held Morocco for long periods until the Moroccans' superior firepower in the end made the difference.
Shot-stopper Yannick Pandor made several other fine saves to keep down the score as the match progressed, although Comoros did have a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly following Díaz's goal, with Rafiki Saïd shooting directly into keeper Yassine Bounou.
Injury Worry for Hosts
The three points was partially marred by an apparent injury to the skipper, Romain Saïss, who limped off after the 18th minute apparently in tears.
The defender had just made his comeback to the international setup recently after a year’s layoff caused by ankle surgery.
The win extends Morocco's historic run of consecutive wins to nineteen, beating the previous record of 15 set by the Spanish national team between 2008 and 2009.
