Morocco were denied a record-extending 19th consecutive international victory after being held to a 1–1 draw by Mali in their second Group A fixture at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Although Morocco's impressive winning streak was halted, the Atlas Lions dominated long spells in Rabat, two VAR-reviewed penalties ultimately ensured the spoils were shared, bringing an end to Morocco's remarkable winning momentum.

Nevertheless, despite the end of their winning streak, Morocco remains a top contender. They are keeping firm control over the group standings.

A Fast Start but No Early Reward

From the opening exchanges, Morocco imposed themselves on the contest, controlling possession and pinning Mali deep in their own half. With their streak behind them, early on, Brahim Díaz floated a dangerous free kick into the area following a miscommunication in the Malian back line. However, the chance drifted harmlessly over, failing to reward Morocco’s bright start.

Shortly afterwards, the Atlas Lions came agonisingly close to breaking the deadlock. In the 17th minute, Djigui Diarra parried Díaz’s powerful strike across the six-yard box. Yet Ismaël Saibari instinctively scooped the rebound over the bar. Despite the miss, Morocco continued to press, clearly intent on continuing their streak of victories.

VAR Drama and Diaz Breaks the Deadlock

As the half wore on, Mali began to settle defensively, although Morocco continued to probe with patience. Indeed, the pressure from Morocco's streak was evident when the breakthrough arrived deep into first-half stoppage time. Following a VAR review, referee Abdou Abdel Mefire awarded Morocco a penalty after the ball struck the hand of Mali left-back Nathan Gassama.

Calm under pressure, Díaz stepped up and dispatched the spot-kick confidently. This sent the home crowd into celebration and seemingly put Morocco back on track for another victory.

Mali Respond After the Break

However, the second half told a different story. While Morocco maintained territorial control, Mali grew increasingly resilient and waited for their opportunity to strike. The moment arrived shortly after the hour mark, impacting Morocco's streak hopes, when Lassine Sinayoko was brought down inside the box by Jawad El Yamiq.

Once again, VAR intervened, sending the referee to the pitchside monitor. This time, the decision went Mali’s way. Sinayoko kept his composure amid loud whistles from the stands. He squeezed his penalty underneath Yassine Bounou to restore parity.

Late Pressure but No Winner

Following the equaliser, Morocco pushed relentlessly for a winner to continue their pressures to extend their streak. Eliesse Ben Seghir tested Diarra with a curling free kick, although the Mali goalkeeper gathered comfortably. Soon after, Diarra was called into action again, reacting sharply to deny Youssef En-Nesyri at close range.

In dramatic fashion, Mali almost conceded an own goal deep into stoppage time when Woyo Coulibaly inadvertently headed the ball towards his own net. Fortunately for the Eagles, Diarra flung out a strong right hand to keep the ball out, preserving a valuable point.

Group Standings and What Comes Next

Ultimately, the draw ends Morocco’s world-record run of consecutive international wins, Arab Cup fixtures with a reserve squad aside. Even so, Walid Regragui’s side remain top of Group A on four points, ahead of Mali and Zambia on two, with Comoros bottom on one point.

Looking ahead, Morocco will face an unbeaten but blunt Zambia in their final group match. They hope to revive the momentum of their streak. Meanwhile, Mali will return to Casablanca to take on Comoros, confident that another positive result could secure automatic qualification for the last 16.

Both decisive fixtures take place on Monday, 29 December (19:00 GMT). Group A reaches its conclusion.