AFCON 2025 hosts Morocco were held to a frustrating 1-1 draw by a resilient Mali side on Friday night, a result that halts the Atlas Lions’ world-record winning streak and leaves Group A wide open heading into the final matchday of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
In a high-stakes encounter defined by VAR interventions and physical play, Real Madrid star Brahim Díaz opened the scoring for Morocco with a penalty deep into first-half stoppage time. However, Mali’s Lassine Sinayoko levelled from the spot in the 64th minute, silencing the 63,844 fans at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium. The draw ends Morocco’s historic 19-game winning run, preventing them from becoming the first team to mathematically secure a spot in the Round of 16.
Despite the stalemate, Morocco remains at the top of Group A with four points. Mali and Zambia sit tied for second with two points each, while the Comoros trail with one. The hosts now face a decisive final group game against Zambia on Monday to secure their progression and the top spot.
The first half was largely dominated by Walid Regragui’s side, who sought to impose their authority early. Díaz was the focal point of the Moroccan attack, forcing a brilliant low save from Malian goalkeeper Djigui Diarra in the 17th minute. The pressure finally told when Diarra was adjudged to have handled the ball following a challenge with Díaz. After a lengthy VAR review, Díaz stepped up to convert the penalty, sending the home crowd into a frenzy.
The "Eagles" of Mali emerged from the break with renewed aggression, refusing to be intimidated by the partisan atmosphere. Their persistence was rewarded when Jawad El Yamiq committed a clumsy foul on Sinayoko inside the area. A second VAR review confirmed the penalty, which Sinayoko clinically dispatched past Yassine Bounou for his second goal of the tournament.
The match was watched by several high-profile figures, including Real Madrid superstar Kylian Mbappé, who was seen in the stands wearing a Morocco jersey in support of his teammate Achraf Hakimi. Hakimi remained an unused substitute as he continues to recover from a minor ankle injury.
Morocco will look to rediscover their winning form against Zambia on December 29, while Mali will face the Comoros simultaneously.
