El Kaabi's Spectacular Strike Secures The Atlas Lions' Victory Against Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations Opener.

Host nation Morocco shook off a anxious start to defeat their island opponents in the tournament's opening game on the weekend, thanks to the Real Madrid attacker and super-sub El Kaabi in the latter period.

This constituted a far from convincing display, though, from the highly fancied hosts, who are ranked 97 places higher than the small Indian Ocean nation in the FIFA rankings and were forced to work tirelessly for the victory in rainy conditions at Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.

Tense Start and Spurned Opportunities

Morocco failed to convert an early spot-kick and were goalless at the interval even with dominating the ball, finally breaking the deadlock in the 11th minute of the second half.

The goal arrived after full-back Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before slipping it across for Brahim Díaz to sidefoot home.

“The opening game is never easy but we came good in the second half,” commented Morocco coach Walid Regragui.

The Substitute's Moment of Brilliance

The tension was subsequently extinguished by a moment of sheer individual brilliance from substitute El Kaabi. Only ten minutes after coming on, the striker connected with a ball into the box with a stunning overhead kick in the 74th minute, doubling and ensuring the result.

Before that, the hosts could have been ahead in the 11th minute after a penalty was awarded for a challenge on Díaz. Yet, Rahimi's effort was kept out by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.

Comoros Defiant Stand and Late Opportunity

The underdogs comfortably held Morocco at bay until the hosts' superior firepower eventually made the difference.

Goalkeeper Pandor made a number of further good stops to keep down the score as the match wore on, even though Comoros did have a chance for an equaliser shortly after Díaz's goal, with Saïd firing straight at keeper Bounou.

Injury Concern for Hosts

The victory was partially marred by an injury to Morocco's skipper, Romain Saïss, who was forced off in the first half apparently in some distress.

The centre-back had only made his comeback to the international setup last month following a year’s absence due to ankle surgery.

The win continues Morocco's record-breaking run of consecutive wins to nineteen, beating the old record of 15 set by the Spanish national team between 2008 and 2009.