The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 continues to deliver thrilling encounters and unexpected results. In Group A, hosts Morocco were held to a 1-1 draw by a resilient Mali side, while in Group B, Egypt secured their place in the Round of 16 with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over South Africa.

Morocco vs. Mali: Atlas Lions Frustrated

Morocco, playing in front of a sold-out Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, were aiming to secure their spot in the knockout stages. However, Mali proved to be a tough opponent, ending Morocco's 19-game winning streak. The Atlas Lions dominated possession in the first half but struggled to break down Mali's disciplined defense. Morocco's persistence paid off in stoppage time when Brahim Díaz converted a penalty, sending the home crowd into jubilation.

Mali responded in the second half with renewed energy. Their pressure led to a penalty in the 64th minute after a foul by Jawad El Yamiq, with Lassine Sinayoko calmly slotting home the equalizer. Despite Morocco's late push for a winner, Mali's defense held firm, resulting in a 1-1 draw. With this result, Morocco sits atop Group A with four points, while Mali has two. Morocco will face Zambia, and Mali will face Comoros in the final group match.

Salah's Penalty Sends Egypt Through

Mohamed Salah's penalty secured a crucial 1-0 victory for Egypt against South Africa, guaranteeing their place in the Round of 16. The match, held in Agadir, saw Egypt reduced to 10 men in first-half added time after Mohamed Hany received a second yellow card. Despite the numerical disadvantage, the Pharaohs managed to hold on to their lead, showcasing their defensive resilience.

The game was not without controversy, as South Africa were denied a penalty late in the second half after a shot appeared to strike Yasser Ibrahim's hand. Despite the appeals, the referee reversed his initial decision after a VAR review. Egypt now has six points from two games and is the first team to qualify for the knockout stage. Egypt will face Angola in their final group match.

Other AFCON Results

In other AFCON action, Zambia and Comoros played out a goalless draw in Group A. In Group B, Angola and Zimbabwe drew 1-1. Elsewhere, Algeria defeated Sudan 3-0, Senegal beat Botswana 3-0, and Tunisia cruised to a 3-1 victory against Uganda. Nigeria secured a 2-1 win against Tanzania. DR Congo edged out Benin 1-0.