🔗 Share this article El Kaabi's Breathtaking Finish Secures The Atlas Lions' Triumph Over the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations First Game. Host nation Morocco overcame a anxious start to beat their island opponents in the tournament's inaugural fixture on the weekend, after strikes by Brahim Díaz and super-sub Ayoub El Kaabi in the latter period. It was a far from convincing showing, however, from the strongly favored hosts, who are ranked 97 places above the small island nation in the world rankings and had to work tirelessly for the points in wet conditions at Rabat's national stadium. Tense Start and Missed Opportunities The hosts failed to convert an early spot-kick and were goalless at half-time even with dominating the ball, eventually opening the scoring in the 11th minute of the second half. The goal came when full-back Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before laying it across for Brahim Díaz to calmly pass into the net. Every opening game is always difficult but we improved in the second period,” commented manager Walid Regragui. The Substitute's Moment of Magic Any lingering nerves was subsequently eased by a moment of pure individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Only ten minutes after coming on, the striker connected with a ball into the box with a spectacular bicycle kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the result. Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team could have been the lead in the 11th minute when a penalty was awarded for a foul on Brahim Díaz. However, Soufiane Rahimi effort was kept out by keeper Yannick Pandor. Comoros Defiant Stand and Second-Half Opportunity Comoros comfortably held their more illustrious opponents for long periods before the Moroccans' superior firepower in the end told. Shot-stopper Pandor pulled off several other fine saves to limit the scoreline as the game progressed, although his team created a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly following the first goal, with Saïd shooting straight at Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou. Injury Concern for Hosts The three points was partially overshadowed by an injury to Morocco's captain, Saïss, who limped off in the 18th minute in tears. This centre-back had just made his comeback to the international setup last month following a lengthy absence caused by a serious ankle operation. The win continues the team's record-breaking run of successive wins to nineteen, beating the old best of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.