Tournament hosts Morocco took on Mali at a jam-packed Stade Prince Moulay Abdallah. The Atlas Lions sit two points clear atop Group A after their 1-1 draw with the Eagles of Mali. The tightly contested affair saw Brahim Diaz score for the Moroccans, while Mali’s leading goalscorer Lassine Sinayoko kept them in the match. With today’s draw, the 19-match win streak by Morocco comes to an end.
Mali was hoping for a big-time victory today, which would’ve helped solidify their chances of advancing. But Morocco’s style of play and depth were a problem all match for the Eagles. The biggest issue for Mali’s attack was the constant lack of numbers. When Morocco pushed forward, it did so with heavy support. Each time Mali built up an attack, there was no presence in the middle to cross to, or the players were so spread out that Morocco’s defense had ample time to regroup and wait for reinforcements. Morocco’s main problem was finishing. With 15 shots (4 on target), a single goal would reflect an inefficient offense.
Morocco broke the deadlock in first half stoppage time after being awarded a penalty. Brahim Diaz converted the penalty try in 45+5′, but not without some controversy. Earlier in the day, a similar handball was committed by Egypt, but was waived off, citing its natural position. The Egyptians went on to win 1-0, leaving the South Africans feeling hard done by the decision. There’s been no shortage of controversial calls this tournament, and this is sure to be added to the list.
Things didn’t get better when Mali’s Lassine Sinayoko was on the receiving end of a hard foul from behind inside the box that was initially ignored. Mali was awarded the penalty, and Sinayoko was issued a yellow card. The reason behind the card was unclear, but most importantly for the Eagles, Sinayoko converted his penalty try for his second goal of the tournament.
Morocco had a great look at goal off a bad clearance by Mali’s defense. After gaining possession, a beautiful pass was played to Youssef En-Nesyri at the top of the box. The Fenerbahçe man took a quick spin on his defender and fired a shot on goal that tested the quick reflexes of keeper Djigui Diarra.
With the announcement of 10 added minutes by the officials, we saw desperation start to set in while also seeing both sides turn up the intensity. With neither side having a clear chance, the game ended in a draw.
For Matchday 3, Mali is set to take on Comoros on Monday, Dec. 29, at 2:00 PM/ET, while Morocco will face Zambia at the same time. With Group A still up for grabs, everything comes down to the final matchday.
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-Jon Jones
Photos: Anthony Reaves