The hosts held on as Sinajoko’s strike ensured they shared the spoils

Morocco, who were supported by Real Madrid and France superstar Kylian Mbappe, remains top of Group A with four points from two games and are virtually assured of a place in the knockout phase, but have not done much to justify their tag as tournament favourites.

Real Madrid midfielder Diaz was a calming presence in a frantic encounter and he curled a free-kick over the bar after just four minutes. He had another great chance just after quarter of an hour, but saw a low shot superbly saved by Jigui Diarra.

Ayoub El Kaabi nodded after 43 minutes and it looked likely that Morocco’s dominance would go unrewarded before the break. But after Diaz raced down the right, he was partially stopped by the stumbling Nathan Gassama. As he tried to stay on his feet, Gassama was adjudged to be in control and referee Abdu Abdel Mefire pointed to the spot.

It looked extremely rough, but Diaz showed no mercy, confidently slotting the spot-kick into the bottom left corner.

Mali fought back

Mali equalized 13 minutes into the second half. Sinajoko broke through the heart of Morocco’s defense only to be cut down by Nayef Agerd. Mysteriously, Mayfair waved to continue only to change his mind when he saw the incident again on the pitchside monitor.

Sinajoko scored, firing under Bono as Morocco conceded their first goal in 918 minutes.

Experienced striker Youssef En-Nesri was sent on to add some more physicality to Morocco’s attack and it almost worked when he powered his way into a shooting position, but his low shot was superbly blocked by Diarra.

Mali experienced another scare, and this one was of her own making.

With 10 minutes of added time almost up, Woyo Koulibaly attempted a risky counter header under little pressure, forcing Diarra into a brilliant one-handed stop low on the right.