đź”— Share this article El Kaabi's Stunning Goal Secures The Atlas Lions' Triumph Against the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations First Game. The the Moroccan side shook off a anxious start to beat their island opponents in the tournament's opening game on Sunday, with goals from the Real Madrid attacker and super-sub El Kaabi in the latter period. It was a far from convincing display, however, from the heavily tipped hosts, who are ranked 97 places above the small Indian Ocean nation in the world rankings and had to grind out for the three points in wet conditions at Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium. Nervy Beginning and Spurned Opportunities Morocco failed to convert an first-half penalty and were goalless at half-time despite controlling the ball, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 11th minute of the second half. It arrived after full-back Mazraoui showed great skill to prevent the ball from going out before laying it across for Brahim DĂaz to sidefoot home. Every first match is always difficult but we came good in the second half,” said Morocco coach Regragui. El Kaabi's Piece of Brilliance The tension was then eased by a moment of pure individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes following his introduction, the striker met a cross with a stunning overhead kick in the 74th minute, doubling and sealing the result. Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team could have been ahead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was awarded for a foul on DĂaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi effort was kept out by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor. The Visitors' Defiant Stand and Second-Half Opportunity The underdogs stoutly defended against their more illustrious opponents at bay until the Moroccans' individual talent eventually told. Shot-stopper Pandor pulled off several other fine saves to limit the score as the match wore on, although Comoros created a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly following DĂaz's goal, with SaĂŻd firing directly into keeper Bounou. Injury Worry for Hosts The three points was somewhat marred by an apparent injury to the skipper, SaĂŻss, who was forced off in the 18th minute in some distress. This defender had only returned to the national side recently after a year’s layoff due to a serious ankle operation. The win continues the team's record-breaking run of successive wins to nineteen, surpassing the old record of 15 set by the Spanish national team between 2008 and 2009.