Ayoub El Kaabi's Breathtaking Goal Caps The Atlas Lions' Triumph Over the Coelacanths in Africa Cup of Nations First Game.

Host nation Morocco shook off a jittery beginning to overcome their island opponents in the tournament's first match on Sunday, with goals from the Real Madrid attacker and substitute El Kaabi in the latter period.

It was a far from convincing performance, however, from the highly fancied Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places above the tiny Indian Ocean nation in the FIFA rankings and had to grind out for the victory in rainy conditions at the national stadium.

Nervy Beginning and Missed Chances

The hosts missed an first-half penalty and were goalless at half-time even with dominating the ball, finally opening the scoring in the 11th minute of the second half.

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

“The opening game is never easy but we delivered in the second half,” said manager Regragui.

The Substitute's Piece of Brilliance

The tension was then calmed by a moment of sheer individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes following coming on, the forward connected with a ball into the box with a spectacular bicycle kick in the 74th minute, making it two and ensuring the win.

Before that, the Moroccan team could have been ahead in the 11th minute when a spot-kick was awarded for a challenge on Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi effort was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.

Comoros Defiant Stand and Second-Half Chance

Comoros comfortably held Morocco for long periods before the hosts' individual talent in the end told.

Goalkeeper Pandor made several further good stops to limit the score as the game wore on, even though his team created a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly following the first goal, with Rafiki Saïd shooting directly into keeper Bounou.

Injury Worry for Morocco

The three points was partially overshadowed by an apparent injury to the skipper, Romain Saïss, who was forced off in the first half in tears.

The defender had just returned to the national side last month after a lengthy absence caused by ankle surgery.

The win extends Morocco's historic run of consecutive wins to 19, surpassing the old best of 15 set by the Spanish national team from 2008 and 2009.