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Host nation the Moroccan side overcame a anxious start to defeat their island opponents in the competition's first match on the weekend, after strikes by Brahim Díaz and substitute Ayoub El Kaabi in the second half.

This constituted a less than dominant performance, though, from the strongly favored Moroccans, who sit 97 places above the small Indian Ocean nation in the world rankings and were forced to work tirelessly for the three points in wet conditions at Rabat's national stadium.

Nervy Beginning and Missed Chances

The hosts missed an first-half spot-kick and were locked at 0-0 at half-time despite controlling possession, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 55th minute.

The goal came when Noussair Mazraoui did well to prevent the ball from going out before laying it square for Brahim Díaz to sidefoot into the net.

Every opening game is invariably tough but we improved in the second half,” said Morocco coach Walid Regragui.

The Substitute's Moment of Magic

Any lingering nerves was then eased by a piece of pure genius from Ayoub El Kaabi. Just 10 minutes following coming on, the striker connected with a ball into the box with a spectacular overhead kick in the 74th minute, making it two and sealing the result.

Earlier in the match, the hosts might have taken the lead in the 11th minute when a penalty was awarded for a challenge on Díaz. Yet, Soufiane Rahimi penalty was kept out by Comoros goalkeeper Yannick Pandor.

The Visitors' Resistance and Second-Half Opportunity

The underdogs comfortably held Morocco for long periods until the Moroccans' greater quality in the end made the difference.

Shot-stopper Pandor made a number of other fine saves to keep down the scoreline as the game progressed, even though Comoros created a chance for an equaliser shortly following Díaz's goal, with Rafiki Saïd shooting directly into keeper Bounou.

Fitness Concern for Hosts

The three points was partially overshadowed by an apparent injury to the captain, Romain Saïss, who was forced off after the 18th minute in some distress.

The centre-back had only made his comeback to the national side last month after a year’s absence due to ankle surgery.

This result continues Morocco's record-breaking run of successive victories to 19, beating the previous record of 15 set by Spain between 2008 and 2009.