Mali produced a spirited comeback to secure a 1-1 draw against hosts Morocco in Group A of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Rabat, leaving the Atlas Lions close to booking their place in the knockout rounds.
The match at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium revolved around two VAR-reviewed penalty decisions, both awarded by Cameroonian referee Abdou Abdel Mefire after on-field reviews.
Morocco struck first deep into first-half stoppage time when Brahim Diaz converted from the spot after the ball struck the hand of Mali defender Nathan Gassama inside the area.
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VAR Drama and Maliβs Calm Response
The Eagles drew level shortly after the hour mark when Lassine Sinayoko was fouled by Jawad El Yamiq during a rare Mali counter-attack. Despite loud whistles from the home crowd, Sinayoko kept his nerve and calmly slotted the ball beneath goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.
Mali goalkeeper Djigui Diarra played a decisive role late on, denying Youssef En-Nesyri with a sharp reflex save and later preventing an own goal from Woyo Coulibaly in added time.
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Morocco dominated possession and chances but failed to find a winner, bringing an end to their world-record run of 19 consecutive victories, although they remain unbeaten in 22 matches.
Group A Standings and Whatβs Next
Morocco tops Group A with four points, while Mali and Zambia sit on two points each. Comoros, who earlier drew 0-0 with Zambia, are at the bottom with one point.
The group concludes on Monday, with Morocco facing Zambia in Rabat and Mali travelling to Casablanca to take on Comoros, as the battle for the last-16 places intensifies.
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