El Kaabi's Breathtaking Goal Wraps Up Morocco's Triumph Against the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations Opener.
The Morocco shook off a jittery start to defeat their island opponents in the competition's opening game on the weekend, thanks to Brahim Díaz and substitute El Kaabi in the second half.
This constituted a far from convincing performance, however, from the heavily tipped Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places above the small Indian Ocean nation in the world rankings and had to grind out for the points in wet conditions at the Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Nervy Beginning and Missed Opportunities
Morocco missed an early spot-kick and were goalless at the interval even with controlling possession, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.
The goal came when Noussair Mazraoui showed great skill to prevent the ball from going out before slipping it across for Díaz to calmly pass home.
“The opening game is always difficult but we delivered in the second half,” said Morocco coach Regragui.
El Kaabi's Piece of Magic
The tension was subsequently eased by a piece of pure individual brilliance from substitute El Kaabi. Only 10 minutes following his introduction, the forward connected with a ball into the box with a spectacular overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and ensuring the win.
Before that, the hosts could have been the lead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was awarded for a challenge on Brahim Díaz. Yet, Rahimi's effort was kept out by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor.
Comoros Defiant Stand and Second-Half Chance
Comoros comfortably held their more illustrious opponents for long periods until the hosts' greater quality eventually told.
Shot-stopper Pandor made several other fine saves to keep down the scoreline as the match progressed, although Comoros did have a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly after Díaz's goal, with Saïd shooting straight at keeper Bounou.
Fitness Concern for Morocco
The three points was somewhat overshadowed by an apparent injury to the captain, Saïss, who limped off in the first half in some distress.
This centre-back had just made his comeback to the national side recently after a lengthy absence due to a serious ankle operation.
The win continues the team's record-breaking run of successive wins to 19, beating the old record of 15 set by the Spanish national team from 2008 and 2009.
