El Kaabi's Breathtaking Finish Secures Morocco's Victory Against the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations Opening Match.
The the Moroccan side overcame a anxious start to overcome their island opponents in the tournament's opening game on Sunday, with goals from Brahim Díaz and super-sub El Kaabi in the second half.
This constituted a less than dominant showing, though, from the strongly favored Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places higher than the tiny island nation in the world rankings and had to toil hard for the victory in wet conditions at the national stadium.
Tense Start and Spurned Opportunities
Morocco failed to convert an early spot-kick and were goalless at the interval despite dominating possession, eventually opening the scoring in the 11th minute of the second half.
It came when Noussair Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before slipping it across for Díaz to calmly pass home.
“The opening game is invariably tough but we improved in the second period,” commented manager Regragui.
El Kaabi's Moment of Magic
The tension was then calmed by a moment of sheer genius from substitute El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes after coming on, the striker met a ball into the box with a stunning bicycle kick in the 74th minute, doubling and ensuring the result.
Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team might have taken ahead in the 11th minute after a spot-kick was awarded for a foul on Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi effort was kept out by keeper Pandor.
Comoros Defiant Stand and Late Chance
The underdogs stoutly defended against their more illustrious opponents at bay until the Moroccans' individual talent eventually told.
Shot-stopper Pandor made several further good stops to keep down the scoreline as the match wore on, although his team did have a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly following the first goal, with Rafiki Saïd firing directly into keeper Yassine Bounou.
Fitness Worry for Hosts
The victory was somewhat marred by an injury to Morocco's captain, Saïss, who limped off in the 18th minute in tears.
This centre-back had only made his comeback to the international setup recently following a year’s absence caused by ankle surgery.
The win continues the team's historic run of consecutive victories to nineteen, beating the old best of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.
