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The Morocco shook off a jittery beginning to beat Comoros in the competition's first match on Sunday, thanks to the Real Madrid attacker and substitute Ayoub El Kaabi in the latter period.

This constituted a far from convincing display, though, from the strongly favored Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places above the small Indian Ocean nation in the world rankings and had to grind out for the victory in rainy conditions at the Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.

Nervy Start and Missed Chances

The hosts missed an first-half penalty and were goalless at the interval despite dominating the ball, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.

It came when full-back Mazraoui did well to keep the ball in play before laying it across for Brahim Díaz to calmly pass home.

Every first match is always difficult but we delivered in the second period,” said Morocco coach Walid Regragui.

The Substitute's Piece of Brilliance

Any lingering nerves was then extinguished by a piece of pure individual brilliance from substitute El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes following his introduction, the forward connected with a cross with a acrobatic bicycle kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the win.

Earlier in the match, the hosts might have taken the lead in the 11th minute after a penalty was given for a challenge on Díaz. However, Rahimi's effort was kept out by keeper Pandor.

Comoros Resistance and Late Chance

The underdogs comfortably held their more illustrious opponents at bay until the hosts' greater quality in the end made the difference.

Goalkeeper Pandor pulled off several other fine saves to limit the scoreline as the game progressed, although his team created a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly following the first goal, with Rafiki Saïd shooting straight at keeper Yassine Bounou.

Fitness Concern for Morocco

The victory was somewhat marred by an injury to the skipper, Romain Saïss, who was forced off after the first half in tears.

The centre-back had just made his comeback to the international setup last month following a year’s layoff due to a serious ankle operation.

This result continues the team's record-breaking run of consecutive victories to 19, surpassing the old best of 15 set by the Spanish national team between 2008 and 2009.