El Kaabi's Spectacular Strike Secures The Atlas Lions' Triumph Over the Coelacanths in Afcon Opening Match.

The the Moroccan side overcame a jittery start to defeat their island opponents in the tournament's opening game on the weekend, with goals from Brahim Díaz and substitute Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.

This constituted a less than dominant showing, however, from the heavily tipped Moroccans, who sit 97 places higher than the small Indian Ocean nation in the world rankings and were forced to grind out for the three points in wet conditions at the Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.

Nervy Start and Spurned Chances

The hosts failed to convert an early spot-kick and were locked at 0-0 at the interval even with dominating the ball, finally opening the scoring in the 55th minute.

It arrived after Noussair Mazraoui showed great skill to keep the ball in play before laying it across for Díaz to calmly pass into the net.

Every opening game is always difficult but we delivered in the second period,” said Morocco coach Walid Regragui.

The Substitute's Moment of Brilliance

Any lingering nerves was then eased by a moment of sheer genius from substitute El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes following his introduction, the forward connected with a cross with a spectacular overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the result.

Before that, the Moroccan team might have taken ahead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was awarded for a challenge on Díaz. However, Soufiane Rahimi penalty was saved by keeper Pandor.

Comoros Resistance and Late Chance

The underdogs comfortably held their more illustrious opponents at bay until the Moroccans' superior firepower eventually told.

Goalkeeper Pandor pulled off several further good stops to limit the scoreline as the match wore on, although his team created a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly following the first goal, with Saïd firing straight at Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.

Injury Worry for Hosts

The three points was somewhat overshadowed by an apparent injury to Morocco's skipper, Romain Saïss, who limped off in the first half in some distress.

This defender had just returned to the international setup last month following a lengthy absence caused by ankle surgery.

This result continues Morocco's historic run of consecutive wins to nineteen, beating the old record of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.