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Host nation the Moroccan side shook off a anxious beginning to defeat Comoros in the tournament's first match on Sunday, thanks to Brahim Díaz and super-sub El Kaabi in the latter period.

This constituted a less than dominant display, however, from the highly fancied Moroccans, who sit 97 places higher than the tiny island nation in the FIFA rankings and were forced to toil hard for the points in rainy conditions at Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.

Nervy Beginning and Missed Chances

The hosts missed an early penalty and were locked at 0-0 at the interval despite controlling possession, finally opening the scoring in the 55th minute.

It came when full-back Mazraoui showed great skill to keep the ball in play before slipping it across for Díaz to calmly pass home.

“The opening game is always difficult but we delivered in the second period,” commented Morocco coach Regragui.

El Kaabi's Moment of Magic

Any lingering nerves was subsequently eased by a moment of pure individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes following coming on, the forward met a ball into the box with a spectacular overhead kick in the 74th minute, doubling and sealing the win.

Earlier in the match, the Moroccan team might have taken the lead in the 11th minute after a penalty was awarded for a foul on Díaz. Yet, Rahimi's effort was kept out by Comoros goalkeeper Pandor.

Comoros Defiant Stand and Late Opportunity

The underdogs comfortably held Morocco for long periods until the Moroccans' superior firepower eventually made the difference.

Goalkeeper Yannick Pandor made several further good stops to limit the score as the match progressed, although his team did have a chance for an equalizer shortly after the first goal, with Saïd firing directly into keeper Bounou.

Fitness Concern for Hosts

The victory was somewhat marred by an apparent injury to Morocco's captain, Saïss, who limped off in the first half in some distress.

This defender had only made his comeback to the international setup recently after a lengthy absence caused by a serious ankle operation.

The win extends Morocco's record-breaking run of consecutive victories to nineteen, beating the previous record of 15 set by the Spanish national team between 2008 and 2009.