Ayoub El Kaabi's Breathtaking Strike Wraps Up Morocco's Triumph Against the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations Opening Match.

The Morocco overcame a nervy beginning to overcome their island opponents in the competition's opening game on the weekend, after strikes by the Real Madrid attacker and substitute El Kaabi in the latter period.

This constituted a hardly emphatic showing, though, from the strongly favored hosts, who sit 97 places higher than the tiny Indian Ocean nation in the FIFA rankings and had to work tirelessly for the victory in wet conditions at Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.

Tense Start and Spurned Opportunities

Morocco missed an early spot-kick and were locked at 0-0 at half-time despite dominating the ball, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.

It arrived after full-back Mazraoui showed great skill to prevent the ball from going out before slipping it across for Díaz to sidefoot into the net.

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

The Substitute's Moment of Brilliance

The tension was subsequently eased by a piece of pure individual brilliance from substitute El Kaabi. Only 10 minutes following his introduction, the forward connected with a cross with a stunning bicycle kick in the 74th minute, making it two and ensuring the result.

Earlier in the match, the hosts might have taken the lead in the 11th minute after a spot-kick was given for a challenge on Brahim Díaz. However, Rahimi's penalty was kept out by keeper Pandor.

Comoros Resistance and Late Opportunity

The underdogs comfortably held Morocco for long periods before the Moroccans' superior firepower in the end made the difference.

Goalkeeper Yannick Pandor pulled off several other fine saves to keep down the scoreline as the match wore on, even though his team did have a chance for an equalizer shortly after Díaz's goal, with Saïd firing directly into Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.

Injury Worry for Hosts

The victory was somewhat overshadowed by an apparent injury to Morocco's captain, Saïss, who was forced off after the 18th minute apparently in some distress.

The centre-back had just returned to the international setup recently following a lengthy absence due to ankle surgery.

The win continues the team's historic run of consecutive wins to nineteen, surpassing the previous record of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.