Ayoub El Kaabi's Stunning Finish Wraps Up Morocco's Triumph Against Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations Opening Match.

The the Moroccan side shook off a anxious beginning to beat Comoros in the competition's opening game on Sunday, thanks to the Real Madrid attacker and substitute El Kaabi in the latter period.

This constituted a far from convincing showing, however, from the heavily tipped Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places higher than the tiny Indian Ocean nation in the FIFA rankings and had to work tirelessly for the victory in wet conditions at the Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.

Tense Start and Spurned Opportunities

Morocco missed an early penalty and were locked at 0-0 at the interval even with dominating the ball, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 11th minute of the second half.

The goal arrived after Noussair Mazraoui did well to keep the ball in play before slipping it square for Brahim Díaz to sidefoot into the net.

“The opening game is never easy but we delivered in the second half,” said Morocco coach Regragui.

El Kaabi's Piece of Brilliance

The tension was subsequently eased by a moment of sheer genius from substitute El Kaabi. Only 10 minutes following coming on, the forward connected with a cross with a stunning overhead kick in the 74th minute, doubling and ensuring the win.

Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team could have been ahead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was awarded for a foul on Díaz. However, Soufiane Rahimi effort was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.

The Visitors' Defiant Stand and Second-Half Chance

The underdogs comfortably held Morocco for long periods before the Moroccans' greater quality eventually told.

Shot-stopper Yannick Pandor made a number of further good stops to limit the score as the match progressed, although his team created a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly following Díaz's goal, with Saïd firing straight at keeper Yassine Bounou.

Fitness Concern for Morocco

The victory was somewhat marred by an apparent injury to Morocco's skipper, Saïss, who limped off in the 18th minute in some distress.

The centre-back had only returned to the international setup recently following a lengthy layoff caused by ankle surgery.

The win extends the team's historic run of consecutive victories to 19, surpassing the previous best of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.