Mali fought back to secure a 1-1 draw against hosts Morocco in Group A of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, leaving Morocco on the brink of a knockout stage spot.

The match was dominated by two penalty decisions, both confirmed after VAR checks. Morocco took the lead in first-half stoppage time when Brahim Diaz converted a penalty after the ball struck Mali left-back Nathan Gassama’s hand.

However, Mali were awarded their own spot-kick just after the hour mark when striker Lassine Sinayoko was brought down by Morocco defender Jawad El Yamiq. Sinayoko calmly slotted the penalty under goalkeeper Yassine Bounou to level the score.

Mali goalkeeper Djigui Diarra played a crucial role in preserving the draw, making key saves, including a late denial of Youssef En-Nesyri and a near own-goal by Mali right-back Woyo Coulibaly in the 10th minute of added time.

The draw leaves Morocco top of Group A with four points, while Mali and Zambia are on two points each, and Comoros sit bottom with one point following their 0-0 draw with Zambia earlier on Friday.

Group A concludes on Monday, with Morocco facing Zambia in Rabat and Mali taking on Comoros in Casablanca.

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Key Takeaways

• Morocco’s world record 19-match winning streak ended, but they remain unbeaten in 22 games.
• Mali remain in contention for a last-16 spot, thanks to their resilience and Sinayoko’s composed penalty.
• VAR played a crucial role in awarding both penalties, highlighting its impact on key Afcon 2025 matches.