El Kaabi's Breathtaking Finish Secures The Atlas Lions' Win Against Comoros in Afcon Opening Match.
The the Moroccan side overcame a jittery beginning to beat Comoros in the competition's opening game on Sunday, after strikes by the Real Madrid attacker and substitute Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
It was a far from convincing showing, though, from the highly fancied hosts, who sit 97 places higher than the small island nation in the world rankings and were forced to grind out for the victory in wet conditions at the national stadium.
Nervy Beginning and Missed Chances
The hosts failed to convert an early spot-kick and were goalless at the interval despite controlling possession, finally breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
The goal arrived after Noussair Mazraoui did well to keep the ball in play before slipping it across for Díaz to sidefoot home.
Every opening game is never easy but we delivered in the second period,” commented manager Regragui.
El Kaabi's Moment of Brilliance
The tension was subsequently eased by a moment of sheer genius from substitute El Kaabi. Only 10 minutes after coming on, the striker 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 might have taken the lead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was given for a foul on Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi penalty was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor.
The Visitors' Resistance and Second-Half Opportunity
The underdogs stoutly defended against their more illustrious opponents for long periods before the hosts' greater quality in the end told.
Goalkeeper Pandor pulled off several other fine saves to limit the score as the game wore on, although Comoros did have a chance for an equalizer shortly following Díaz's goal, with Rafiki Saïd firing directly into Morocco goalkeeper Bounou.
Fitness Worry for Hosts
The victory was somewhat overshadowed by an injury to the skipper, Saïss, who limped off after the 18th minute in some distress.
This defender had just made his comeback to the national side recently following a year’s absence due to a serious ankle operation.
This result continues the team's historic run of successive wins to 19, beating the old best of 15 set by the Spanish national team between 2008 and 2009.
