Ayoub El Kaabi's Spectacular Finish Caps Morocco's Victory Over the Coelacanths in Afcon Opener.
Host nation the Moroccan side overcame a nervy start to overcome Comoros in the tournament's first match on Sunday, after strikes by Brahim Díaz and substitute Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
This constituted a less than dominant showing, though, from the heavily tipped Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places higher than the small Indian Ocean nation in the FIFA rankings and were forced to work tirelessly for the three points in rainy conditions at the Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.
Nervy Start and Spurned Opportunities
The hosts missed an early spot-kick and were locked at 0-0 at half-time even with controlling possession, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 11th minute of the second half.
The goal came when full-back Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before slipping it square for Brahim Díaz to sidefoot home.
Every first match is invariably tough but we improved in the second period,” commented manager Regragui.
El Kaabi's Piece of Magic
Any lingering nerves was then eased by a moment of pure individual brilliance from substitute El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes after his introduction, the forward connected with a cross with a acrobatic overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and ensuring the win.
Earlier in the match, the hosts might have taken the lead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was awarded for a foul on Díaz. However, Rahimi's effort was kept out by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor.
Comoros Defiant Stand and Second-Half Opportunity
The underdogs comfortably held Morocco at bay before the Moroccans' individual talent eventually made the difference.
Shot-stopper Yannick Pandor pulled off a number of further good stops to keep down the score as the match progressed, even though Comoros did have a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly following the first goal, with Saïd firing directly into Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.
Fitness Worry for Morocco
The three points was partially overshadowed by an apparent injury to the skipper, Romain Saïss, who was forced off in the 18th minute in tears.
The centre-back had just made his comeback to the national side recently after a lengthy absence due to a serious ankle operation.
This result continues the team's historic run of successive victories to nineteen, beating the previous record of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.
