🔗 Share this article Ayoub El Kaabi's Breathtaking Strike Caps The Atlas Lions' Win Against the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations Opener. The the Moroccan side shook off a jittery start to overcome Comoros in the competition's first match on Sunday, after strikes by the Real Madrid attacker and super-sub El Kaabi in the second half. This constituted a far from convincing showing, however, from the heavily tipped Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places higher than the small island nation in the world rankings and were forced to grind out for the three points in rainy conditions at the national stadium. Tense Beginning and Missed Opportunities The hosts failed to convert an early penalty and were locked at 0-0 at half-time even with 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. “The opening game is invariably tough but we came good in the second period,” commented manager Walid Regragui. El Kaabi's Piece of Brilliance Any lingering nerves was subsequently extinguished by a piece of sheer individual brilliance from substitute El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes following coming on, the forward connected with a cross with a spectacular bicycle kick in the 74th minute, doubling and sealing the result. Earlier in the match, the hosts could have been the lead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was awarded for a foul on Díaz. Yet, Rahimi's effort was kept out by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor. Comoros Resistance and Late Chance The underdogs stoutly defended against Morocco for long periods until the Moroccans' individual talent in the end made the difference. Shot-stopper Pandor made a number of other good stops to limit the scoreline as the game wore on, although Comoros created a chance for an equaliser shortly following Díaz's goal, with Saïd firing directly into keeper Bounou. Fitness Concern for Hosts The three points was somewhat overshadowed by an injury to Morocco's captain, Romain Saïss, who was forced off in the first half in tears. This defender had just returned to the international setup last month following a lengthy layoff caused by ankle surgery. This result continues Morocco's record-breaking run of successive wins to 19, surpassing the old record of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.