El Kaabi's Stunning Finish Caps Morocco's Triumph Against Comoros in Afcon Opening Match.

Host nation the Moroccan side shook off a nervy start to beat Comoros in the tournament's inaugural fixture on Sunday, after strikes by Brahim Díaz and super-sub El Kaabi in the second half.

This constituted a far from convincing display, though, from the heavily tipped hosts, who are ranked 97 places above the tiny Indian Ocean nation in the FIFA rankings and had to work tirelessly for the victory in rainy conditions at Rabat's national stadium.

Nervy Start and Spurned Chances

The hosts failed to convert an first-half penalty and were goalless at the interval despite controlling possession, finally opening the scoring in the 11th minute of the second half.

It arrived after full-back Mazraoui did well to keep the ball in play before laying it square for Díaz to sidefoot into the net.

“The opening game is never easy but we improved in the second period,” commented manager Regragui.

El Kaabi's Piece of Magic

Any lingering nerves was then eased by a moment of sheer genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes following his introduction, the striker connected with a ball into the box with a acrobatic bicycle kick in the 74th minute, doubling and sealing the result.

Earlier in the match, the hosts could have been the lead in the 11th minute when a penalty was awarded for a challenge on Díaz. However, Soufiane Rahimi effort was kept out by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor.

Comoros Resistance and Second-Half Chance

The underdogs stoutly defended against their more illustrious opponents at bay until the Moroccans' greater quality eventually told.

Goalkeeper Yannick Pandor pulled off several other fine saves to keep down the scoreline as the match progressed, although Comoros created a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly after Díaz's goal, with Rafiki Saïd shooting straight at Morocco goalkeeper Bounou.

Injury Worry for Hosts

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

This defender had just returned to the national side recently following a year’s layoff caused by ankle surgery.

This result continues the team's historic run of successive victories to 19, beating the previous record of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.