Morocco Stopped Cold as VAR Drama Ends Perfect Run
VAR Chaos Halts Morocco’s March
Morocco’s stunning 19-game winning streak came to an abrupt end as the AFCON hosts were held to a tense 1-1 draw by Mali in Rabat, with both goals arriving from the penalty spot after VAR intervention. The result denied the Atlas Lions the chance to seal early qualification but still left them firmly in control of Group A.
A packed Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium expected another routine home victory, yet Mali proved stubborn, physical and fearless, matching Morocco’s intensity and refusing to fold under pressure.
Morocco Control, Mali Threaten
The hosts started on the front foot and nearly struck first when Brahim Diaz broke free inside the box, only to be denied by Djigui Diarra. As Morocco pushed higher and higher, Mali remained dangerous on the counter, repeatedly using the pace and power of Lassine Sinayoko to unsettle the defence.
Ayoub El Kaabi wasted a golden chance before the break, heading wide from close range as frustration crept into the Moroccan performance.
Diaz Delivers, VAR Intervenes
Just as it looked like the first half would end goalless, VAR stepped in. Diaz earned a penalty after a handball by Nathan Gassama and coolly converted to give Morocco a deserved lead deep into stoppage time.
The goal lifted the crowd and appeared to put Morocco on course for another win, but Mali were far from finished.
Mali Hit Back, Morocco Miss Out
VAR played its role again in the second half when Jawad El Yamiq brought down Sinayoko in the box. The Mali forward stepped up himself and fired past Yassine Bounou to level the contest on 64 minutes.
Morocco responded with fresh legs and renewed urgency. Youssef En Nesyri came close late on, but Diarra stood firm to deny the hosts a winner and secure a valuable point for the Eagles.
Group Wide Open Going Into Final Round
Morocco remain top of Group A with four points, but qualification is not yet sealed. Mali sit level with Zambia on two points, while Comoros trail behind, setting up a decisive final round of fixtures with everything still to play for.
