AFCON 2025 Morocco off to strong start

AFCON 2025 has gained momentum on its second day, with three thrilling group-stage matches. The tournament began with hosts Morocco defeating Comoros 2-0. Attention then shifted to the Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca, where Mali faced Zambia in the day’s first fixture.

Mali was awarded a penalty in the first half but failed to convert it. They eventually broke the deadlock just after the hour mark through Lassine Sinayoko. However, Zambia refused to give up, and Patson Daka scored a powerful header deep into stoppage time, resulting in a 1-1 draw.

Fans at the stadium expressed their enthusiasm for the match, describing it as a “very good game” with an “incredible atmosphere.” One supporter noted that the game was “tough” for Mali initially, but they liked the team’s spirit and fight after conceding. Another fan, who was supporting Mali, found the game “interesting” and “exciting,” despite their team being pegged back to a draw.

The result leaves both Mali and Zambia two points behind Morocco in Group A. Zambia will face Comoros in Casablanca next, while Mali will take on the hosts in Rabat in a pivotal clash.

In Group B, South Africa made a winning start by defeating Angola 2-1, with Oswin Appollis and Lyle Foster scoring for Bafana Bafana. Egypt also secured a 2-1 victory against Zimbabwe, coming from behind to take all three points. Prince Dube opened the scoring for Zimbabwe, but Omar Marmoush equalized, and Mohamed Salah struck in stoppage time to complete the turnaround.

The results have set up a top-of-the-table showdown in Agadir on Friday, with Egypt’s Pharaohs facing South Africa’s Bafana Bafana. The two teams have met three times previously at AFCON, with Egypt winning twice. The upcoming match is expected to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams looking to maintain their winning momentum in the tournament.