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The the Moroccan side shook off a nervy start to beat Comoros in the competition's first match on the weekend, after strikes by Brahim Díaz and super-sub Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.

This constituted a hardly emphatic showing, though, from the highly fancied Moroccans, who are ranked 97 places higher than the small island nation in the world rankings and had to grind out for the points in wet conditions at Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah stadium.

Tense Beginning and Spurned Chances

Morocco failed to convert an early penalty and were locked at 0-0 at the interval even with controlling the ball, eventually opening the scoring in the 11th minute of the second half.

The goal arrived after full-back Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before slipping it square for Brahim Díaz to sidefoot home.

“The opening game is never easy but we came good in the second half,” said Morocco coach Regragui.

The Substitute's Moment of Brilliance

Any lingering nerves was subsequently calmed by a piece of pure individual brilliance from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just ten minutes after coming on, the striker connected with a cross with a stunning bicycle kick in the 74th minute, doubling and ensuring the win.

Earlier in the match, the hosts could have been ahead in the 11th minute after a spot-kick was awarded for a challenge on Brahim Díaz. However, Soufiane Rahimi penalty was saved by keeper Yannick Pandor.

Comoros Defiant Stand and Late Chance

Comoros comfortably held Morocco at bay until the hosts' greater quality eventually told.

Shot-stopper Yannick Pandor made several further fine saves to keep down the scoreline as the match wore on, although Comoros created a clear opportunity for an equalizer shortly following the first goal, with Rafiki Saïd firing straight at keeper Bounou.

Injury Worry for Hosts

The three points was partially overshadowed by an injury to Morocco's skipper, Saïss, who limped off after the 18th minute apparently in some distress.

This defender had only made his comeback to the international setup last month following a lengthy layoff caused by a serious ankle operation.

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