El Kaabi's Breathtaking Finish Secures Morocco's Triumph Over the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations First Game.
Host nation the Moroccan side overcame a jittery beginning to beat their island opponents in the competition's opening game on Sunday, after strikes by the Real Madrid attacker and substitute El Kaabi in the latter period.
This constituted a hardly emphatic performance, though, from the highly fancied Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places above the small island nation in the FIFA rankings and had to work tirelessly for the three points in wet conditions at the Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Nervy Start and Missed Chances
Morocco missed an early penalty and were goalless at half-time even with controlling the ball, finally opening the scoring in the 11th minute of the second half.
The goal arrived after full-back Mazraoui showed great skill to prevent the ball from going out before laying it square for Díaz to calmly pass into the net.
Every first match is invariably tough but we delivered in the second period,” said manager Walid Regragui.
The Substitute's Piece of Brilliance
The tension was subsequently eased by a piece of sheer individual brilliance from substitute El Kaabi. Just ten minutes after coming on, the striker met a cross with a stunning overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and ensuring the win.
Before that, the Moroccan team could have been ahead in the 11th minute after a spot-kick was awarded for a challenge on Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi effort was kept out by keeper Yannick Pandor.
Comoros Defiant Stand and Late Opportunity
The underdogs stoutly defended against their more illustrious opponents for long periods until the hosts' individual talent in the end made the difference.
Shot-stopper Pandor made several further good stops to limit the scoreline as the match wore on, although his team did have a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly following Díaz's goal, with Rafiki Saïd shooting directly into keeper Yassine Bounou.
Fitness Worry for Hosts
The victory was partially overshadowed by an injury to the captain, Romain Saïss, who was forced off after the 18th minute in tears.
The centre-back had only made his comeback to the national side last month after a year’s absence due to ankle surgery.
The win continues Morocco's historic run of successive wins to nineteen, beating the previous best of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.
