🔗 Share this article El Kaabi's Breathtaking Finish Wraps Up The Atlas Lions' Victory Over the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations First Game. The Morocco shook off a anxious start to beat Comoros in the tournament's inaugural fixture on Sunday, with goals from Brahim Díaz and super-sub Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half. This constituted a far from convincing display, though, from the strongly favored Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places higher than the small Indian Ocean nation in the FIFA rankings and were forced to toil hard for the victory in rainy conditions at the national stadium. Nervy Beginning and Missed Opportunities Morocco missed an early penalty and were goalless at the interval despite controlling the ball, finally breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute. The goal arrived after Noussair Mazraoui showed great skill to keep the ball in play before laying it across for Díaz to calmly pass into the net. “The opening game is invariably tough but we delivered in the second period,” commented Morocco coach Regragui. El Kaabi's Piece of Magic The tension was subsequently extinguished by a piece of sheer genius from substitute El Kaabi. Only 10 minutes following coming on, the forward met a cross with a stunning overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the result. Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team might have taken the lead in the 11th minute after a penalty was given for a challenge on Brahim Díaz. However, Soufiane Rahimi penalty was kept out by keeper Yannick Pandor. Comoros Defiant Stand and Late Chance Comoros stoutly defended against their more illustrious opponents for long periods until the hosts' superior firepower eventually made the difference. Shot-stopper Pandor made several further good stops to keep down the scoreline as the match wore on, even though Comoros did have a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly following Díaz's goal, with Rafiki Saïd firing straight at keeper Bounou. Fitness Concern for Morocco The three points was partially overshadowed by an apparent injury to Morocco's captain, Saïss, who limped off after the first half apparently in some distress. The centre-back had only returned to the international setup last month following a year’s layoff caused by ankle surgery. The win continues Morocco's record-breaking run of successive victories to nineteen, beating the previous best of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.