El Kaabi's Stunning Strike Caps Morocco's Win Over Comoros in Afcon Opener.

The the Moroccan side shook off a anxious beginning to overcome their island opponents in the competition's inaugural fixture on Sunday, thanks to Brahim Díaz and substitute Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.

This constituted a hardly emphatic performance, though, from the highly fancied Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places higher than the tiny Indian Ocean nation in the FIFA rankings and were forced to grind out for the victory in rainy conditions at the national stadium.

Nervy Start and Spurned Opportunities

Morocco failed to convert an early spot-kick and were goalless at half-time despite dominating possession, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.

The goal came when full-back Mazraoui showed great skill to keep the ball in play before slipping it square for Brahim Díaz to sidefoot into the net.

Every opening game is always difficult but we improved in the second half,” commented manager Walid Regragui.

The Substitute's Moment of Brilliance

Any lingering nerves was then extinguished by a moment of sheer individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Only ten minutes after coming on, the forward connected with a cross with a spectacular overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the win.

Before that, the hosts could have been ahead in the 11th minute after a penalty was awarded for a challenge on Díaz. However, Rahimi's effort was saved by keeper Pandor.

The Visitors' Defiant Stand and Late Opportunity

Comoros comfortably held Morocco for long periods until the Moroccans' individual talent eventually made the difference.

Shot-stopper Yannick Pandor made a number of further good stops to limit the score as the game wore on, even though his team created a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly following the first goal, with Rafiki Saïd firing directly into keeper Bounou.

Injury Worry for Hosts

The victory was somewhat overshadowed by an apparent injury to Morocco's skipper, Saïss, who was forced off after the 18th minute in tears.

The centre-back had only returned to the national side last month following a year’s layoff caused by a serious ankle operation.

The win continues Morocco's record-breaking run of consecutive victories to 19, surpassing the previous best of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.