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Host nation the Moroccan side overcame a anxious beginning to beat Comoros in the tournament's first match on Sunday, after strikes by the Real Madrid attacker and substitute El Kaabi in the second half.

This constituted a hardly emphatic showing, though, from the highly fancied hosts, who sit 97 places higher than the small Indian Ocean nation in the FIFA rankings and were forced to grind out for the victory in wet conditions at Rabat's national stadium.

Tense Beginning and Missed Chances

Morocco missed an first-half spot-kick and were goalless at the interval even with dominating the ball, finally breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.

The goal came when full-back Mazraoui showed great skill to keep the ball in play before slipping it square for Díaz to calmly pass into the net.

“The first match is always difficult but we improved in the second period,” commented manager Regragui.

The Substitute's Piece of Brilliance

Any lingering nerves was subsequently eased by a moment of pure genius from substitute El Kaabi. Only 10 minutes after his introduction, the striker met a cross with a spectacular overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the result.

Before that, the Moroccan team might have taken the lead in the 11th minute after a spot-kick was given for a challenge on Brahim Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi penalty was kept out by keeper Pandor.

The Visitors' Resistance and Second-Half Opportunity

Comoros comfortably held Morocco for long periods until the Moroccans' greater quality eventually made the difference.

Shot-stopper Pandor pulled off a number of further fine saves to keep down the score as the match wore on, although Comoros did have a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly after the first goal, with Saïd firing straight at Morocco goalkeeper Bounou.

Injury Concern for Hosts

The victory was partially marred by an apparent injury to the captain, Saïss, who limped off in the first half apparently in some distress.

This centre-back had only returned to the national side last month after a lengthy layoff due to ankle surgery.

This result extends the team's record-breaking run of consecutive wins to 19, beating the previous best of 15 set by Spain from 2008 and 2009.