🔗 Share this article Ayoub El Kaabi's Spectacular Goal Secures The Atlas Lions' Victory Against the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations First Game. Host nation Morocco overcame a nervy start to beat their island opponents in the competition's opening game on the weekend, with goals from Brahim Díaz and super-sub El Kaabi in the second half. It was a far from convincing performance, though, from the strongly favored Moroccans, who sit 97 places higher than the tiny Indian Ocean nation in the world rankings and were forced to grind out for the points in rainy conditions at the Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium. Tense Beginning and Spurned Opportunities The hosts missed an early spot-kick and were locked at 0-0 at the interval even with dominating possession, finally breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute. It came when full-back Mazraoui did well to keep the ball in play before laying it square for Brahim Díaz to sidefoot home. Every opening game is never easy but we improved in the second period,” said manager Walid Regragui. The Substitute's Piece of Magic The tension was subsequently eased by a moment of pure individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes following his introduction, the striker met a cross with a acrobatic overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the win. Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team might have taken ahead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was awarded for a foul on Brahim Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi effort was saved by keeper Pandor. The Visitors' Defiant Stand and Late Chance Comoros stoutly defended against their more illustrious opponents for long periods before the Moroccans' individual talent in the end told. Shot-stopper Pandor pulled off several further good stops to keep down the score as the match progressed, even though his team created a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly following the first goal, with Saïd shooting directly into Morocco goalkeeper Bounou. Fitness Worry for Hosts The three points was somewhat marred by an injury to Morocco's skipper, Romain Saïss, who was forced off in the first half apparently in tears. This defender had only returned to the national side last month following a lengthy layoff due to ankle surgery. The win continues Morocco's historic run of consecutive victories to 19, surpassing the old record of 15 set by the Spanish national team from 2008 and 2009.