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Host nation the Moroccan side shook off a nervy beginning to beat Comoros in the competition's opening game on the weekend, thanks to the Real Madrid attacker and super-sub El Kaabi in the second half.

It was a less than dominant showing, though, from the strongly favored hosts, who are ranked 97 places higher than the tiny Indian Ocean nation in the FIFA rankings and had to grind out for the points in rainy conditions at Rabat's national stadium.

Nervy Beginning and Missed Chances

The hosts missed an first-half penalty and were goalless at half-time despite controlling possession, finally opening the scoring in the 55th minute.

The goal arrived after full-back Mazraoui showed great skill to prevent the ball from going out before slipping it square for Díaz to calmly pass into the net.

Every opening game is always difficult but we delivered in the second period,” said manager Walid Regragui.

El Kaabi's Piece of Magic

Any lingering nerves was subsequently extinguished by a moment of pure individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Only 10 minutes following his introduction, the forward connected with a ball into the box with a acrobatic overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the result.

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

Comoros Defiant Stand and Late Opportunity

Comoros stoutly defended against Morocco at bay until the Moroccans' superior firepower eventually made the difference.

Shot-stopper Yannick Pandor made several other fine saves to limit the score as the match wore on, although his team did have a chance for an equalizer shortly after Díaz's goal, with Rafiki Saïd shooting straight at Morocco goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.

Fitness Worry for Hosts

The three points was somewhat overshadowed by an apparent injury to the skipper, Romain Saïss, who was forced off after the first half in tears.

The defender had just made his comeback to the international setup recently following a lengthy absence caused by a serious ankle operation.

This result extends Morocco's historic run of consecutive wins to 19, beating the previous record of 15 set by the Spanish national team from 2008 and 2009.