El Kaabi's Spectacular Goal Wraps Up The Atlas Lions' Win Against Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations Opener.

Host nation the Moroccan side overcame a jittery start to defeat their island opponents in the tournament's first match on Sunday, thanks to Brahim Díaz and substitute El Kaabi in the latter period.

It was a far from convincing display, however, from the heavily tipped hosts, who are ranked 97 places higher than the tiny Indian Ocean nation in the FIFA rankings and had to work tirelessly for the three points in rainy conditions at Rabat's national stadium.

Nervy Beginning and Missed Opportunities

Morocco missed an first-half penalty and were goalless at half-time despite controlling possession, finally opening the scoring in the 55th minute.

The goal arrived after Noussair Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before slipping it across for Díaz to calmly pass home.

“The first match is never easy but we improved in the second half,” commented Morocco coach Walid Regragui.

The Substitute's Piece of Brilliance

Any lingering nerves was subsequently calmed by a piece of pure individual brilliance from substitute El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes after coming on, the forward connected with a cross with a acrobatic overhead kick in the 74th minute, doubling and sealing the result.

Before that, the Moroccan team could have been the lead in the 11th minute after a penalty was awarded for a foul on Díaz. However, Soufiane Rahimi penalty was kept out by keeper Pandor.

Comoros Defiant Stand and Second-Half Opportunity

Comoros comfortably held Morocco at bay before the hosts' individual talent in the end told.

Goalkeeper Yannick Pandor made several further fine saves to limit the score as the match wore on, even though Comoros did have a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly after the first goal, with Rafiki Saïd firing straight at Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.

Injury Worry for Hosts

The victory was somewhat marred by an injury to the skipper, Romain Saïss, who was forced off after the 18th minute apparently in tears.

This defender had just made his comeback to the international setup recently after a year’s layoff caused by a serious ankle operation.

This result extends the team's historic run of consecutive victories to nineteen, surpassing the previous best of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.