Ayoub El Kaabi's Spectacular Goal Secures Morocco's Win Against the Coelacanths in Afcon First Game.
Host nation Morocco shook off a nervy start to beat their island opponents in the tournament's first match on the weekend, with goals from the Real Madrid attacker and substitute El Kaabi in the second half.
It was a less than dominant showing, though, from the strongly favored hosts, who are ranked 97 places higher than the small Indian Ocean nation in the world rankings and were forced to grind out for the victory in rainy conditions at Rabat's national stadium.
Nervy Beginning and Missed Chances
Morocco failed to convert an first-half penalty and were locked at 0-0 at half-time even with dominating possession, eventually opening the scoring in the 55th minute.
The goal arrived after Noussair Mazraoui did well to keep the ball in play before slipping it across for Brahim Díaz to calmly pass home.
“The first match is never easy but we came good in the second half,” said Morocco coach Regragui.
El Kaabi's Piece of Brilliance
Any lingering nerves was then eased by a piece of sheer genius from substitute El Kaabi. Only 10 minutes after coming on, the forward connected with a ball into the box with a spectacular bicycle kick in the 74th minute, making it two 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 foul on Brahim Díaz. However, Rahimi's effort was kept out by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor.
Comoros Resistance and Late Chance
Comoros comfortably held Morocco at bay until the Moroccans' superior firepower eventually made the difference.
Goalkeeper Yannick Pandor made several further fine saves to keep down the score as the game progressed, although Comoros did have a chance for an equaliser shortly after the first goal, with Saïd shooting straight at keeper Bounou.
Injury Concern for Morocco
The victory was somewhat marred by an injury to Morocco's captain, Saïss, who limped off in the first half in some distress.
This defender had just made his comeback to the national side last month following a lengthy layoff due to ankle surgery.
The win continues Morocco's record-breaking run of consecutive victories to nineteen, beating the old record of 15 set by the Spanish national team from 2008 and 2009.