Mazraoui 'fantastic' in AFCON opener

Mazraoui started the game at right-back, with African Player of the Year Achraf Hakimi an unused substitute as he recovers from injury.

The United defender saw plenty of the ball, having 93 touches as the hosts pinned back their Group A opponents.

He contributed an assist early in the second half, with his cutback tucked home by former Manchester City forward Brahim Diaz, and then tested goalkeeper Yannick Pandor with an effort of his own.

The win was sealed via Ayoub El Kaabi’s spectacular overhead kick 15 minutes from time, at the impressive new Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.

“Without Hakimi we could have done better, but Mazraoui is fantastic,” Regragui told ESPN. “I place him in the hierarchy as strong as Achraf, even if he has different qualities.”

With Hakimi also a doubt for the meeting with Mali on Boxing Day, Regragui suggested Mazraoui and left full-back Anass Salah-Eddine would continue in the side.

“There's no question at the moment, because Hakimi isn't ready to return, so both of them will play again.

“We can continue with a left-footer on the left side and a right-footer on the right.

“I have three super full-backs; Salah-Eddine has gone up a level and is a great left-back, Mazraoui is one of the best technically in his position.

“Sometimes we'll be without Achraf, sometimes without Mazraoui, sometimes without Salah-Eddine.

“I don't have any doubts or worries. In the past, without Achraf, we would have been in trouble, but now we have options. One thing is certain, however, Hakimi will play [some part in the tournament].”

Morocco continue in the capital Rabat for their second and third Group A fixtures, with Mali (26 December) and Zambia (29 December) the opposition.