Ayoub El Kaabi's Stunning Strike Caps The Atlas Lions' Triumph Over the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations Opener.

The Morocco shook off a nervy start to beat their island opponents in the tournament's inaugural fixture on the weekend, thanks to Brahim Díaz and super-sub Ayoub El Kaabi in the latter period.

It was a hardly emphatic performance, however, from the highly fancied hosts, who sit 97 places above the small island nation in the world rankings and were forced to work tirelessly for the three points in rainy conditions at the Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.

Nervy Start and Missed Opportunities

Morocco missed an early spot-kick and were locked at 0-0 at half-time despite dominating the ball, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.

The goal arrived after Noussair Mazraoui showed great skill to prevent the ball from going out before laying it square for Brahim Díaz to sidefoot home.

Every opening game is always difficult but we came good in the second half,” commented manager Regragui.

The Substitute's Piece of Magic

The tension was then calmed by a moment of pure individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just ten minutes after coming on, the striker met a cross with a acrobatic bicycle kick in the 74th minute, doubling and ensuring the result.

Earlier in the match, the hosts could have been ahead in the 11th minute after a penalty was awarded for a foul on Brahim Díaz. Yet, Rahimi's penalty was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.

Comoros Defiant Stand and Late Chance

The underdogs comfortably held their more illustrious opponents at bay before the Moroccans' superior firepower eventually made the difference.

Shot-stopper Pandor pulled off a number of further fine saves to keep down the score as the match progressed, although Comoros created a chance for an equaliser shortly after the first goal, with Saïd firing directly into keeper Yassine Bounou.

Fitness Concern for Hosts

The three points was somewhat overshadowed by an apparent injury to Morocco's captain, Saïss, who limped off in the 18th minute in tears.

This defender had only returned to the international setup recently after a year’s layoff caused by ankle surgery.

The win extends the team's record-breaking run of consecutive wins to 19, beating the old best of 15 set by the Spanish national team between 2008 and 2009.