🔗 Share this article El Kaabi's Stunning Goal Caps Morocco's Triumph Against the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations First Game. The Morocco shook off a anxious start to defeat their island opponents in the competition's first match on the weekend, thanks to Brahim Díaz and substitute El Kaabi in the second half. This constituted a less than dominant display, however, from the strongly favored hosts, who are ranked 97 places above the small island nation in the FIFA rankings and had to work tirelessly for the three points in rainy conditions at Rabat's national stadium. Tense Start and Missed Chances The hosts failed to convert an first-half penalty and were locked at 0-0 at the interval even with dominating the ball, finally breaking the deadlock in the 11th minute of the second half. The goal came when Noussair Mazraoui showed great skill to prevent the ball from going out before laying it across for Brahim Díaz to calmly pass home. Every first match is invariably tough but we delivered in the second half,” commented manager Regragui. The Substitute's Moment of Brilliance Any lingering nerves was then eased by a piece of sheer individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes after his introduction, the striker connected with a cross with a acrobatic bicycle kick in the 74th minute, making it two and ensuring the win. Before that, the Moroccan team might have taken ahead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was given for a challenge on Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi effort was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor. The Visitors' Resistance and Second-Half Chance The underdogs stoutly defended against Morocco for long periods until the Moroccans' individual talent eventually made the difference. Shot-stopper Pandor made several further fine saves to limit the score as the match wore on, even though Comoros created a chance for an equalizer shortly after the first goal, with Rafiki Saïd shooting straight at Morocco goalkeeper Bounou. Fitness Worry for Morocco The victory was somewhat marred by an injury to the captain, Romain Saïss, who was forced off in the first half in some distress. The centre-back had just made his comeback to the international setup recently after a lengthy absence caused by a serious ankle operation. The win continues Morocco's historic run of consecutive wins to 19, surpassing the previous record of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.