Morocco and Mali played out a 1–1 draw in a tightly contested Group A match of the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 in Rabat, leaving qualification for the Round of 16 to be decided on the last day.
Just as they had done in their opening game, the Atlas Lions dominated possession in the opening half. However, they found it difficult to break in early against a disciplined Malian side, well organized and compact across the lines.
Walid Regragui’s men probed patiently and were eventually rewarded in stoppage time. Following a VAR review on a handball, Morocco was awarded a penalty, which Brahim Díaz calmly converted to give the hosts a narrow advantage at the break.
Mali emerged from the break with renewed belief and were quickly back on level terms in similar kind as did Morocco in finding the opener.
Just past the hour mark, Lassina Sinayoko was brought down inside the penalty area and took responsibility on the resulting spotkick, expertly tucking it away to draw his side level.
The remainder of the contest saw Morocco push forward in search of a decisive goal, increasing the tempo and introducing fresh attacking options. Despite sustained pressure, the Atlas Lions were unable to break through a resilient Malian backline.
Morocco will face Zambia, while Mali takes on Comoros in the final round of matches in the group, with qualification for the knockout phase still firmly within reach for both teams.
CAF
