Brahim Díaz and Lassine Sinayoko were both on target from the penalty spot as hosts Morocco were held to a 1-1 draw by Mali in their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Group A clash on Friday.
The opening half was fiercely contested, with Mali imposing themselves physically and turning the first 30 minutes into a tight midfield battle.
Morocco eventually found their rhythm, pushing forward with more intent, but Mali’s backline stood firm under pressure.
Morocco finally broke the deadlock in stoppage time of the first half when Brahim Díaz calmly dispatched a penalty in the 47th minute, adding to the goal he scored in their opening win over Comoros.
Mali responded after the restart and were rewarded in the 64th minute when Lassine Sinayoko converted from the spot following a foul in the box, restoring parity.
Despite Morocco enjoying the lion’s share of possession and fashioning several late chances, they were unable to grab a decisive second goal.
The result leaves Morocco top of the group with four points. Mali and Zambia are level on two points apiece, while Comoros sit bottom with one point after playing out a goalless draw with Zambia earlier in the day.
