🔗 Share this article El Kaabi's Breathtaking Finish Secures The Atlas Lions' Win Over the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations Opening Match. The the Moroccan side overcame a jittery beginning to overcome their island opponents in the competition's opening game on the weekend, with goals from the Real Madrid attacker and super-sub El Kaabi in the second half. It was a less than dominant showing, however, from the highly fancied hosts, who sit 97 places above the tiny island nation in the world rankings and were forced to grind out for the victory in rainy conditions at Rabat's national stadium. Nervy Start and Missed Chances The hosts missed an early penalty and were locked at 0-0 at the interval even with dominating possession, eventually opening the scoring in the 11th minute of the second half. It came when Noussair Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before laying it across for Díaz to sidefoot into the net. Every first match is never easy but we delivered in the second period,” commented Morocco coach Walid Regragui. The Substitute's Moment of Magic Any lingering nerves was subsequently eased by a moment of sheer genius from substitute El Kaabi. Just ten minutes following his introduction, the striker connected with a cross with a stunning overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the win. Earlier in the match, the hosts could have been the lead in the 11th minute after a penalty was given for a challenge on Brahim Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi effort was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor. The Visitors' Resistance and Late Chance Comoros comfortably held their more illustrious opponents at bay until the hosts' individual talent in the end made the difference. Goalkeeper Yannick Pandor made a number of further good stops to keep down the scoreline as the match wore on, even though Comoros created a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly after Díaz's goal, with Rafiki Saïd shooting straight at keeper Bounou. Fitness Worry for Morocco The three points was somewhat marred by an apparent injury to Morocco's skipper, Romain Saïss, who was forced off in the first half in tears. The centre-back had just returned to the national side recently following a year’s absence due to a serious ankle operation. The win extends Morocco's record-breaking run of consecutive wins to 19, surpassing the previous record of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.