Ayoub El Kaabi's Stunning Goal Wraps Up The Atlas Lions' Victory Over Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations Opening Match.

The Morocco overcame a nervy start to beat Comoros in the tournament's first match on Sunday, after strikes by Brahim Díaz and super-sub El Kaabi in the latter period.

It was a far from convincing performance, though, from the heavily tipped hosts, who are ranked 97 places above the small island nation in the world rankings and had to grind out for the points in wet conditions at the Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.

Nervy Start and Spurned Chances

Morocco failed to convert an early spot-kick and were locked at 0-0 at half-time despite dominating the ball, finally opening the scoring in the 55th minute.

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

“The opening game is invariably tough but we improved in the second period,” commented manager Regragui.

The Substitute's Piece of Brilliance

Any lingering nerves was then eased by a piece of sheer genius from substitute El Kaabi. Just ten minutes after his introduction, the striker met a cross with a spectacular overhead kick in the 74th minute, doubling and sealing the result.

Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team might have taken the lead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was awarded for a foul on Díaz. However, Soufiane Rahimi penalty was kept out by keeper Yannick Pandor.

The Visitors' Resistance and Second-Half Chance

Comoros comfortably held Morocco at bay before the Moroccans' superior firepower in the end made the difference.

Goalkeeper Yannick Pandor made several further fine saves to keep down the score as the game progressed, although his team did have a chance for an equalizer shortly after Díaz's goal, with Saïd firing straight at keeper Yassine Bounou.

Injury Worry for Morocco

The victory was partially overshadowed by an injury to Morocco's skipper, Saïss, who was forced off after the first half in tears.

The defender had just made his comeback to the international setup recently after a year’s absence due to ankle surgery.

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