El Kaabi's Spectacular Finish Secures Morocco's Victory Over the Coelacanths in Afcon Opening Match.

The the Moroccan side shook off a nervy beginning to overcome Comoros in the tournament's inaugural fixture on Sunday, with goals from Brahim Díaz and super-sub El Kaabi in the second half.

It was a far from convincing display, however, from the heavily tipped Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places above the tiny island nation in the world rankings and were forced to work tirelessly for the victory in wet conditions at Rabat's national stadium.

Nervy Beginning and Spurned Chances

The hosts missed an early penalty and were goalless at the interval despite controlling the ball, finally breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.

The goal came when Noussair Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before laying it across for Díaz to sidefoot home.

Every first match is invariably tough but we delivered in the second half,” commented Morocco coach Walid Regragui.

The Substitute's Piece of Magic

Any lingering nerves was subsequently eased by a moment of sheer genius from substitute El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes after his introduction, the striker met a ball into the box with a spectacular overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and ensuring the result.

Before that, the Moroccan team might have taken ahead in the 11th minute after a spot-kick was awarded for a challenge on Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi effort was saved by keeper Yannick Pandor.

The Visitors' Resistance and Late Opportunity

The underdogs stoutly defended against Morocco for long periods until the hosts' superior firepower eventually made the difference.

Goalkeeper Pandor pulled off a number of other fine saves to limit the score as the match wore on, even though his team did have a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly after Díaz's goal, with Saïd firing directly into Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.

Fitness Worry for Morocco

The victory was somewhat marred by an injury to Morocco's captain, Saïss, who was forced off in the first half apparently in some distress.

The defender had just made his comeback to the national side last month after a year’s layoff due to a serious ankle operation.

The win continues the team's record-breaking run of successive wins to 19, beating the previous record of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.