El Kaabi's Stunning Goal Secures Morocco's Triumph Against Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations Opener.
The the Moroccan side overcame a nervy beginning to overcome their island opponents in the competition's opening game on Sunday, with goals from the Real Madrid attacker and substitute El Kaabi in the latter period.
It was a less than dominant showing, however, from the strongly favored Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places above the tiny island nation in the world rankings and were forced to work tirelessly for the three points in rainy conditions at Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Nervy Beginning and Spurned Chances
The hosts missed an early spot-kick and were goalless at the interval despite dominating the ball, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 11th minute of the second half.
It came when full-back Mazraoui showed great skill to keep the ball in play before slipping it square for Díaz to calmly pass into the net.
“The first match is never easy but we came good in the second half,” commented Morocco coach Walid Regragui.
El Kaabi's Piece of Brilliance
The tension was then extinguished by a moment of pure individual brilliance from substitute El Kaabi. Only ten minutes after his introduction, the striker met a cross with a spectacular overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and ensuring the win.
Before that, the Moroccan team could have been the lead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was given for a challenge on Díaz. However, Rahimi's effort was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.
The Visitors' Defiant Stand and Second-Half Chance
Comoros stoutly defended against Morocco at bay before the Moroccans' individual talent in the end told.
Goalkeeper Yannick Pandor made a number of further fine saves to limit the scoreline as the game wore on, although his team did have a chance for an equalizer shortly after the first goal, with Saïd shooting directly into Morocco goalkeeper Bounou.
Fitness Worry for Hosts
The victory was partially marred by an injury to Morocco's skipper, Romain Saïss, who was forced off after the first half in tears.
This centre-back had just made his comeback to the international setup recently after a year’s layoff due to a serious ankle operation.
This result extends the team's historic run of consecutive wins to 19, beating the previous best of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.
