Morocco missed an early chance to confirm their place to the knockout of the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after a 1-1 draw with Mali on Boxing day in Rabat.
The hosts scored at the stroke of halftime after Ibrahim Diaz converted from the spot, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way with a well struck effort.
The penalty was awarded after VAR intervention after Mali defender Nathan Gassama handled the ball while he attempted to get back on his feet after he was dazzled by Diaz.
The equaliser came in the 64th minute, another penalty, after Morocco’s Jawad El Yamiq brought down Lassine Sinayoko.
And the Auxerre forward swept it home, despite Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou diving the right side.
The hosts who once again missed captain Achraf Hakimi, remain top with four points having beaten Comoros in the opener.
Walid Regragui’s side will meet Zambia in their last group match, targeting top spot heading into the knockout phase.
For Mali, one of the underachievers in the history of the tournament, are now on two points after they were held to a 1-1 draw with Zambia, and will face Comoros needing nothing but maximum points.