Rabat: Morocco missed the opportunity to secure their place in the last 16 of the Africa Cup of Nations following a 1-1 draw against Mali. Lassine Sinayoko’s second-half penalty canceled out Brahim Diaz’s first-half spot-kick, leaving Morocco at the top of Group A but still needing a win to guarantee progression.
According to France24.com, the match at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium ended Morocco’s world-record winning streak, which had extended to 19 matches following their 2-0 victory over Comoros. With four points from two games, Morocco leads Group A, trailed by Mali and Zambia, each with two points. Morocco’s next challenge is against Zambia, and a victory will ensure they advance as group winners.
Morocco midfielder Azzedine Ounahi expressed the team’s need to reflect on their second-half performance, acknowledging a shift in dynamics following Sinayoko’s penalty. Despite the setback, Ounahi emphasized the team’s focus on securing a win against Zambia.
Achraf Hakimi, Morocco’s captain and African
Player of the Year, remained sidelined due to an ankle injury sustained with Paris Saint-Germain. Among the crowd was Kylian Mbappé, who showed support by wearing a Morocco shirt with Hakimi’s number.
Brahim Diaz was pivotal for Morocco, drawing a penalty after Mali’s Nathan Gassama handled the ball. Diaz successfully converted the spot-kick, marking his second goal of the tournament. However, Mali equalized when Sinayoko converted a penalty awarded after a challenge by Jawad El Yamiq.
Morocco’s attempts to reclaim the lead were thwarted by Mali goalkeeper Djigui Diarra, who saved a shot from substitute Youssef En-Nesyri. The match concluded with Mali holding firm, resulting in jeers from the home crowd as the final whistle blew.