Ayoub El Kaabi's Spectacular Goal Caps Morocco's Win Against Comoros in Afcon First Game.
Host nation the Moroccan side overcame a anxious start to overcome their island opponents in the tournament's first match on the weekend, thanks to the Real Madrid attacker and substitute Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
This constituted a less than dominant performance, however, from the heavily tipped Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places above the tiny Indian Ocean nation in the world rankings and were forced to toil hard for the victory in wet conditions at the Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Tense Start and Spurned Opportunities
The hosts missed an early spot-kick and were goalless at the interval despite dominating possession, finally breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
It arrived after Noussair Mazraoui did well to keep the ball in play before slipping it across for Díaz to calmly pass into the net.
Every first match is never easy but we came good in the second period,” said Morocco coach Walid Regragui.
The Substitute's Moment of Brilliance
Any lingering nerves was subsequently calmed by a moment of pure genius from substitute El Kaabi. Just ten minutes after his introduction, the striker met a cross with a acrobatic bicycle kick in the 74th minute, making it two and ensuring the result.
Before that, the hosts could have been the lead in the 11th minute when a penalty was awarded for a challenge on Díaz. However, Rahimi's effort was saved by keeper Yannick Pandor.
Comoros Defiant Stand and Late Chance
The underdogs stoutly defended against Morocco for long periods until the Moroccans' greater quality eventually told.
Goalkeeper Yannick Pandor pulled off a number of further fine saves to limit the score as the game wore on, even though Comoros created a chance for an equaliser shortly after Díaz's goal, with Saïd firing straight at keeper Bounou.
Injury Worry for Morocco
The three points was partially overshadowed by an apparent injury to Morocco's captain, Saïss, who was forced off in the 18th minute in tears.
This defender had only made his comeback to the national side last month after a lengthy layoff caused by ankle surgery.
The win continues Morocco's historic run of successive victories to nineteen, surpassing the previous best of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.
