🔗 Share this article El Kaabi's Spectacular Strike Wraps Up Morocco's Win Over Comoros in Afcon Opening Match. Host nation the Moroccan side shook off a nervy beginning to overcome their island opponents in the tournament's first match on Sunday, with goals from the Real Madrid attacker and super-sub El Kaabi in the second half. It was a hardly emphatic showing, though, from the strongly favored hosts, who are ranked 97 places above the tiny Indian Ocean nation in the world rankings and were forced to grind out for the victory in rainy conditions at the national stadium. Nervy Start and Spurned Chances The hosts failed to convert an early spot-kick and were locked at 0-0 at the interval despite dominating the ball, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 11th minute of the second half. The goal came when Noussair Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before laying it across for Díaz to calmly pass into the net. Every opening game is always difficult but we improved in the second period,” said Morocco coach Walid Regragui. The Substitute's Moment of Magic The tension was subsequently calmed by a moment of sheer genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes after his introduction, the striker connected with a cross with a spectacular bicycle kick in the 74th minute, doubling and ensuring the win. Earlier in the match, the hosts might have taken the lead in the 11th minute after a penalty was awarded for a foul on Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi penalty was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor. Comoros Resistance and Second-Half Opportunity The underdogs comfortably held Morocco at bay before the Moroccans' greater quality eventually told. Shot-stopper Pandor pulled off several further fine saves to keep down the score as the match wore on, although Comoros did have a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly after the first goal, with Rafiki Saïd shooting directly into keeper Yassine Bounou. Injury Concern for Morocco The victory was somewhat marred by an injury to the skipper, Romain Saïss, who was forced off in the first half in tears. This defender had only returned to the international setup recently after a year’s absence due to a serious ankle operation. This result extends the team's historic run of successive wins to nineteen, surpassing the old record of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.