Ayoub El Kaabi's Spectacular Strike Caps Morocco's Win Over Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations Opening Match.
The Morocco shook off a jittery beginning to beat their island opponents in the tournament's first match on Sunday, after strikes by the Real Madrid attacker and substitute Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
It was a less than dominant performance, though, from the highly fancied Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places above the tiny island nation in the world rankings and were forced to work tirelessly for the points in wet conditions at the national stadium.
Tense Beginning and Spurned Chances
The hosts missed an first-half spot-kick and were goalless at half-time despite controlling the ball, eventually opening the scoring in the 55th minute.
The goal came when Noussair Mazraoui did well to keep the ball in play before slipping it square for Díaz to sidefoot home.
Every opening game is never easy but we delivered in the second half,” said Morocco coach Regragui.
The Substitute's Piece of Magic
The tension was subsequently calmed by a piece of pure genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes after coming on, the striker connected with a ball into the box with a acrobatic overhead kick in the 74th minute, doubling and ensuring the result.
Earlier in the match, the hosts might have taken the lead in the 11th minute after a penalty was given for a challenge on Díaz. Yet, Rahimi's effort was kept out by keeper Yannick Pandor.
Comoros Defiant Stand and Second-Half Chance
The underdogs stoutly defended against their more illustrious opponents at bay until the hosts' individual talent in the end made the difference.
Shot-stopper Yannick Pandor made a number of further fine saves to keep down the score as the match progressed, although Comoros created a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly after Díaz's goal, with Rafiki Saïd firing directly into Morocco goalkeeper Bounou.
Fitness Worry for Hosts
The three points was somewhat marred by an injury to the captain, Saïss, who limped off in the first half in some distress.
This defender had only returned to the national side recently after a lengthy layoff caused by ankle surgery.
The win extends the team's record-breaking run of consecutive victories to nineteen, beating the old record of 15 set by the Spanish national team from 2008 and 2009.