Morocco held by Mali despite Ezzalzouli penalty in Tangier friendly

Morocco were held to a 1-1 draw by Mali in a friendly match at the Grand Stade de Tanger on Sunday, despite taking the lead through Abdessamad Ezzalzouli.

The hosts were awarded a penalty in the 35th minute, and Ezzalzouli converted to put Morocco ahead.

Mali struggled to find an equaliser before half-time, with Morocco taking a 1-0 lead into the interval.

Morocco then sought to extend their advantage after the break, while Mali continued to press for a way back into the match. Their efforts were rewarded when Joosou Diarra equalised with about 13 minutes of normal time remaining.

Neither side was able to find a winning goal as the game ended level.

The match was part of Morocco’s preparations after they began their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with two victories. They beat Gabon and Lesotho by the same scoreline, winning both matches 2-0.