Mali secured a place in the last 16 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) after a dull 0-0 draw with Comoros in Casablanca.
Chances were few for both sides, with the first shot on target not coming until just before half-time. Kamory Doumbia went closest for Mali when a powerful shot from Nathan Gassama deflected off his leg and narrowly missed the post early in the second half.
Comoros had their best moments through substitute El Fardou Ben, whose shot forced a good save from goalkeeper Djigui Diarra, while Rafiki Said saw an effort cleared off the line before it was ruled offside.
Mali were reduced to 10 men late on after Amadou Haidara was shown a harsh red card, but they held on comfortably to finish Group A unbeaten with three points. Comoros ended with two points, which is not enough to reach the knockout stage due to poor goal difference.
Mali now finish second in Group A behind hosts Morocco and will face the runners-up from Group C – Tunisia, Tanzania or Uganda – in the last 16 on Saturday.
