Ayoub El Kaabi's Breathtaking Strike Wraps Up Morocco's Triumph Over the Coelacanths in Afcon Opener.

The the Moroccan side overcame a jittery start to beat Comoros in the tournament's opening game on the weekend, after strikes by the Real Madrid attacker and super-sub El Kaabi in the latter period.

It was a far from convincing showing, however, from the highly fancied hosts, who sit 97 places higher than the small Indian Ocean nation in the FIFA rankings and were forced to toil hard for the victory in rainy conditions at Rabat's national stadium.

Nervy Start and Spurned Chances

Morocco failed to convert an first-half spot-kick and were locked at 0-0 at the interval even with controlling possession, eventually opening the scoring in the 55th minute.

The goal 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 always difficult but we came good in the second period,” said Morocco coach Regragui.

El Kaabi's Moment of Brilliance

The tension was subsequently extinguished by a piece of sheer individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes after his introduction, the forward met a ball into the box with a stunning bicycle kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the win.

Before that, the Moroccan team could have been the lead in the 11th minute after a spot-kick was given for a challenge on Brahim Díaz. However, Soufiane Rahimi effort was kept out by keeper Yannick Pandor.

Comoros Resistance and Late Opportunity

The underdogs comfortably held Morocco for long periods until the Moroccans' superior firepower eventually told.

Shot-stopper Yannick Pandor pulled off several other fine saves to limit the score as the match wore on, although Comoros did have a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly after Díaz's goal, with Saïd firing straight at Morocco goalkeeper Bounou.

Injury Worry for Hosts

The three points was partially marred by an injury to Morocco's skipper, Romain Saïss, who limped off after the 18th minute in some distress.

This defender had only returned to the national side last month after a lengthy layoff caused by a serious ankle operation.

The win continues Morocco's historic run of successive wins to 19, beating the previous record of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.