Ayoub El Kaabi's Stunning Goal Secures Morocco's Triumph Against Comoros in Africa Cup of Nations Opening Match.

Host nation the Moroccan side shook off a anxious beginning to overcome their island opponents in the tournament's inaugural fixture on Sunday, after strikes by the Real Madrid attacker and super-sub El Kaabi in the second half.

This constituted a far from convincing display, however, 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 points in rainy conditions at Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.

Nervy Start and Missed Chances

Morocco missed an first-half penalty and were goalless at half-time even with controlling the ball, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.

The goal came when Noussair Mazraoui did well to keep the ball in play before slipping it across for Díaz to calmly pass home.

Every opening game is never easy but we came good in the second period,” said manager Walid Regragui.

El Kaabi's Piece of Brilliance

The tension was then eased by a piece of pure individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Only 10 minutes after his introduction, the forward connected with a cross with a stunning overhead kick in the 74th minute, doubling and sealing the win.

Before that, the Moroccan team could have been ahead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was given for a foul on Brahim Díaz. Yet, Rahimi's effort was saved by keeper Yannick Pandor.

Comoros Resistance and Second-Half Opportunity

The underdogs comfortably held their more illustrious opponents for long periods before the hosts' superior firepower in the end told.

Goalkeeper Yannick Pandor pulled off a number of other fine saves to keep down the scoreline as the match wore on, although his team created a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly following Díaz's goal, with Saïd shooting directly into Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.

Fitness Worry for Hosts

The three points was partially marred by an apparent injury to the skipper, Saïss, who was forced off after the first half in some distress.

This centre-back had only made his comeback to the national side last month after a lengthy absence caused by a serious ankle operation.

This result extends Morocco's record-breaking run of successive wins to 19, surpassing the previous record of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.