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The the Moroccan side shook off a jittery beginning to defeat Comoros in the competition's opening game on Sunday, after strikes by the Real Madrid attacker and substitute El Kaabi in the latter period.

This constituted a far from convincing showing, though, from the highly fancied Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places higher than the tiny island nation in the FIFA rankings and had to work tirelessly for the three points in rainy conditions at the national stadium.

Tense Beginning and Missed Chances

The hosts failed to convert an early spot-kick and were goalless at the interval despite controlling the ball, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 11th minute of the second half.

It arrived after full-back Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before slipping it square for Díaz to calmly pass home.

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

The Substitute's Piece of Brilliance

Any lingering nerves was subsequently eased by a moment of sheer individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes after coming on, the forward connected with a cross with a acrobatic bicycle kick in the 74th minute, doubling and sealing the result.

Before that, the hosts might have taken the lead in the 11th minute after a spot-kick was given for a challenge on Brahim Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi effort was saved by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor.

Comoros Defiant Stand and Second-Half Chance

The underdogs stoutly defended against Morocco at bay before the Moroccans' superior firepower in the end told.

Shot-stopper Yannick Pandor made several further fine saves to keep down the scoreline as the game progressed, even though his team created a clear opportunity for an equaliser shortly following Díaz's goal, with Saïd shooting straight at keeper Bounou.

Injury Concern for Morocco

The victory was partially overshadowed by an injury to the captain, Saïss, who was forced off after the first half apparently in some distress.

This defender had only made his comeback to the national side last month after a year’s absence caused by a serious ankle operation.

This result extends Morocco's historic run of successive wins to nineteen, beating the old best of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.