Morocco and Mali Share the Points After a Tense Penalty-Filled Battle at CAN 2025
So here’s how this Morocco versus Mali clash at the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 played out, and honestly, it was one of those games where tension mattered more than flair. Played on Friday night in Rabat, the match ended 1–1, and both goals came from the penalty spot. In the end, neither side truly dominated, and qualification from Group A has now been pushed to the final matchday.
Morocco came into this game full of confidence after winning their opening match. The expectation was that the Lions of the Atlas would push for another victory and seal their place in the knockout stage early. For long spells, that seemed possible. Possession was largely controlled by Morocco, the tempo was set by their midfield, and Mali were kept fairly quiet in open play. Still, despite all that control, clear chances were hard to come by.
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The breakthrough finally arrived just before halftime. After a VAR review, a handball was spotted inside the Malian box, and a penalty was awarded. Brahim Diaz stepped up under pressure and calmly sent the goalkeeper the wrong way. That goal, scored right at the end of the first half, felt like a psychological boost for Morocco, and at that moment, qualification looked close.
But the second half told a different story. Mali came back with more intensity, and Morocco gradually dropped deeper. The game became more physical, more broken, and rhythm was constantly interrupted by fouls and stoppages. It was during this spell that Mali were rewarded. After another VAR check, a penalty was given in their favor, and Lassine Sinayoko made no mistake from the spot, even though Bono guessed correctly. Suddenly, it was 1–1, and the match was wide open again.
From there, chances were limited. Morocco pushed forward, especially in the final minutes, but their attacks lacked sharpness. Mali, on the other hand, defended bravely and even looked dangerous on the counter late on. Extra time stretched on due to injuries and delays, and a few heart-stopping moments followed, including a near own goal that forced a brilliant save from Malian goalkeeper Djigui Diarra.
When the final whistle blew, the draw felt fair. Both teams had canceled each other out, both relied on penalties, and both walked away knowing more work is needed. Morocco remain top of Group A with four points, but qualification is not yet secured. Mali stay firmly in the race as well.
Now, everything comes down to the third match. Morocco will have to finish the job against Zambia, while Mali still have their own fate to fight for. This one may not have been spectacular, but it was a reminder that at the Africa Cup of Nations, nothing is ever given easily.
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