El Kaabi's Breathtaking Strike Wraps Up The Atlas Lions' Triumph Against the Coelacanths in Afcon Opener.

The the Moroccan side shook off a nervy start to beat their island opponents in the competition's inaugural fixture on Sunday, after strikes by Brahim Díaz and super-sub El Kaabi in the latter period.

It was a less than dominant showing, though, from the strongly favored Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places above the tiny Indian Ocean nation in the FIFA rankings and were forced to work tirelessly for the points in rainy conditions at Rabat's national stadium.

Tense Beginning and Missed Opportunities

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

It arrived after Noussair Mazraoui showed great skill to prevent the ball from going out before slipping it square for Díaz to calmly pass home.

“The first match is invariably tough but we came good in the second half,” commented Morocco coach Walid Regragui.

El Kaabi's Moment of Magic

The tension was subsequently eased by a moment of sheer genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Only 10 minutes following his introduction, the striker connected with a cross with a stunning bicycle kick in the 74th minute, doubling and ensuring the win.

Earlier in the match, the hosts could have been the lead in the 11th minute after a spot-kick was awarded for a foul on Díaz. Yet, Rahimi's penalty was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.

Comoros Defiant Stand and Late Chance

The underdogs comfortably held Morocco for long periods until the hosts' greater quality in the end told.

Goalkeeper Pandor made several further fine saves to limit the scoreline as the match progressed, although Comoros did have a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly after Díaz's goal, with Rafiki Saïd shooting directly into keeper Yassine Bounou.

Injury Worry for Morocco

The three points was partially marred by an injury to the captain, Saïss, who was forced off after the first half apparently in some distress.

The defender had only made his comeback to the national side recently following a year’s absence due to a serious ankle operation.

The win extends Morocco's historic run of successive victories to 19, surpassing the old record of 15 set by the Spanish national team between 2008 and 2009.