Ayoub El Kaabi's Breathtaking Strike Wraps Up The Atlas Lions' Victory Over Comoros in Afcon Opener.

The Morocco overcame a anxious beginning to overcome Comoros in the competition's first match on Sunday, thanks to Brahim Díaz and super-sub Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.

This constituted a far from convincing performance, though, from the heavily tipped Moroccans, who sit 97 places above the tiny Indian Ocean nation in the world rankings and had to work tirelessly for the three points in wet conditions at Rabat's national stadium.

Tense Start and Spurned Chances

Morocco missed an first-half penalty and were locked at 0-0 at half-time despite dominating possession, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.

It arrived after Noussair Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before slipping it square for Díaz to sidefoot into the net.

Every first match is invariably tough but we came good in the second period,” commented Morocco coach Regragui.

The Substitute's Moment of Magic

Any lingering nerves was then extinguished by a moment of sheer genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Only ten minutes following coming on, the forward connected with a cross with a stunning bicycle kick in the 74th minute, making it two and ensuring the result.

Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team could have been the lead in the 11th minute after a penalty was given for a challenge on Díaz. However, Rahimi's effort was kept out by keeper Yannick Pandor.

Comoros Defiant Stand and Late Chance

The underdogs comfortably held their more illustrious opponents for long periods until the hosts' individual talent eventually made the difference.

Goalkeeper Yannick Pandor made several other fine saves to limit the scoreline as the match progressed, although Comoros created a chance for an equaliser shortly following Díaz's goal, with Saïd shooting directly into keeper Yassine Bounou.

Fitness Worry for Hosts

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

This defender had only returned to the international setup last month following a lengthy layoff due to ankle surgery.

This result extends the team's historic run of consecutive wins to nineteen, beating the old best of 15 set by the Spanish national team between 2008 and 2009.