El Kaabi's Stunning Goal Caps The Atlas Lions' Win Against the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations Opener.
Host nation the Moroccan side overcame a nervy start to defeat Comoros in the tournament's opening game on the weekend, after strikes by the Real Madrid attacker and super-sub Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
This constituted a far from convincing showing, however, from the highly fancied hosts, who are ranked 97 places above the small island nation in the world rankings and were forced to grind out for the victory in rainy conditions at Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Tense Start and Spurned Opportunities
The hosts failed to convert an early penalty and were locked at 0-0 at the interval even with dominating the ball, finally opening the scoring in the 11th minute of the second half.
It came when Noussair Mazraoui did well to keep the ball in play before laying it across for Díaz to sidefoot into the net.
“The first match is never easy but we came good in the second period,” commented manager Walid Regragui.
El Kaabi's Moment of Brilliance
Any lingering nerves was then calmed by a moment of sheer genius from substitute El Kaabi. Only 10 minutes following his introduction, the forward connected with a cross with a stunning bicycle kick in the 74th minute, doubling and sealing the win.
Before that, the hosts could have been the lead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was given for a challenge on Brahim Díaz. Yet, Rahimi's penalty was saved by keeper Yannick Pandor.
Comoros Resistance and Second-Half Chance
The underdogs comfortably held their more illustrious opponents at bay until the Moroccans' individual talent in the end made the difference.
Shot-stopper Yannick Pandor made several further fine saves to keep down the scoreline as the game progressed, although his team created a chance for an equalizer shortly following the first goal, with Saïd shooting directly into keeper Bounou.
Injury Concern for Hosts
The victory was somewhat marred by an apparent injury to the captain, Romain Saïss, who limped off after the first half in tears.
The defender had only made his comeback to the national side recently following a lengthy absence due to ankle surgery.
This result continues the team's historic run of successive victories to 19, surpassing the old best of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.
