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El Kaabi's Spectacular Strike Wraps Up Morocco's Win Over the Coelacanths in Afcon First Game.
Host nation Morocco shook off a jittery start to overcome Comoros in the competition's opening game on the weekend, thanks to the Real Madrid attacker and super-sub Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.
This constituted a less than dominant performance, though, from the heavily tipped hosts, who are ranked 97 places higher than the small Indian Ocean nation in the FIFA rankings and were forced to grind out for the victory in rainy conditions at the national stadium.
Tense Beginning and Spurned Chances
The hosts failed to convert an early spot-kick and were locked at 0-0 at the interval despite dominating possession, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 11th minute of the second half.
The goal arrived after Noussair Mazraoui showed great skill to keep the ball in play before laying it across for Díaz to sidefoot into the net.
Every first match is always difficult but we came good in the second half,” commented manager Regragui.
The Substitute's Piece of Magic
Any lingering nerves was subsequently extinguished by a moment of sheer genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Only 10 minutes following his introduction, the forward met a ball into the box with a acrobatic overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the win.
Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team could have been the lead in the 11th minute after a spot-kick was awarded for a challenge on Díaz. However, Soufiane Rahimi penalty was kept out by keeper Pandor.
The Visitors' Resistance and Second-Half Chance
The underdogs stoutly defended against their more illustrious opponents at bay before the Moroccans' superior firepower eventually told.
Goalkeeper Pandor pulled off several other good stops to keep down the score as the match wore on, although Comoros did have a chance for an equalizer shortly following the first goal, with Saïd shooting straight at Morocco goalkeeper Bounou.
Injury Worry for Hosts
The victory was partially marred by an injury to Morocco's captain, Romain Saïss, who limped off after the 18th minute in some distress.
This defender had only returned to the international setup last month after a year’s layoff caused by ankle surgery.
This result continues the team's historic run of successive wins to nineteen, surpassing the old record of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.
Ashley Carter
Elara is a seasoned writer and digital nomad who shares her adventures and expertise in lifestyle and technology.
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