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Host nation the Moroccan side overcame a anxious start to defeat Comoros in the tournament's opening game on Sunday, with goals from the Real Madrid attacker and super-sub El Kaabi in the second half.

This constituted a less than dominant performance, though, from the strongly favored hosts, who are ranked 97 places above the tiny Indian Ocean nation in the world rankings and were forced to grind out for the victory in wet conditions at Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.

Nervy Start and Missed Opportunities

Morocco missed an early penalty and were locked at 0-0 at the interval despite controlling possession, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.

It came when full-back Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before laying it across for Brahim Díaz to calmly pass home.

Every opening game is always difficult but we came good in the second half,” said Morocco coach Regragui.

El Kaabi's Moment of Magic

Any lingering nerves was subsequently calmed by a moment of sheer genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just ten minutes following his introduction, the striker connected with a cross with a stunning overhead kick in the 74th minute, doubling and ensuring the win.

Before that, the hosts could have been ahead in the 11th minute after a penalty was awarded for a foul on Brahim Díaz. However, Rahimi's penalty was saved by keeper Pandor.

The Visitors' Resistance and Second-Half Opportunity

Comoros comfortably held their more illustrious opponents at bay before the hosts' superior firepower in the end told.

Goalkeeper Yannick Pandor made a number of other fine saves to limit the scoreline as the game progressed, even though Comoros created a chance for an equaliser shortly after the first goal, with Rafiki Saïd firing straight at keeper Yassine Bounou.

Injury Concern for Hosts

The three points was partially overshadowed by an injury to the captain, Romain Saïss, who limped off after the 18th minute in tears.

This defender had just made his comeback to the international setup recently after a year’s layoff due to a serious ankle operation.

The win continues the team's record-breaking run of successive wins to 19, beating the previous best of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.