Ayoub El Kaabi's Stunning Finish Wraps Up The Atlas Lions' Victory Against the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations Opening Match.

The the Moroccan side overcame a nervy beginning to overcome Comoros in the competition's inaugural fixture on the weekend, thanks to the Real Madrid attacker and substitute El Kaabi in the second half.

This constituted a far from convincing display, though, from the heavily tipped Moroccans, who sit 97 places higher than the small Indian Ocean nation in the FIFA rankings and had to toil hard for the points in rainy conditions at the national stadium.

Nervy Start and Missed Opportunities

The hosts missed an early penalty and were goalless at half-time even with controlling possession, eventually opening the scoring in the 55th minute.

The goal came when Noussair Mazraoui showed great skill to prevent the ball from going out before laying it across for Brahim Díaz to calmly pass home.

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

The Substitute's Moment of Magic

Any lingering nerves was subsequently eased by a moment of pure genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes following his introduction, the forward met a ball into the box with a stunning bicycle kick in the 74th minute, doubling and ensuring the result.

Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team might have taken ahead in the 11th minute when a penalty was given for a foul on Brahim Díaz. However, Soufiane Rahimi effort was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.

Comoros Resistance and Late Chance

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

Shot-stopper Pandor made a number of other good stops to keep down the score as the match progressed, even though Comoros did have a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly following the first goal, with Saïd firing directly into keeper Bounou.

Fitness Concern for Morocco

The three points was somewhat overshadowed by an injury to Morocco's skipper, Saïss, who limped off in the 18th minute apparently in some distress.

This centre-back had just made his comeback to the national side last month following a year’s absence caused by ankle surgery.

This result continues Morocco's record-breaking run of successive victories to nineteen, beating the previous record of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.