AFCON: Comoros and Zambia battle to drab draw

Comoros and Zambia cancelled each other out for a 0-0 draw in Group A action from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

Both teams will likely need victories in their final group stage matches after a missed opportunity to earn a victory on Friday at the Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca. Opportunities came at a premium with inspiration lacking in the attack on both ends.

Comoros did put the ball in the net when Myziane Maolida tapped in from a cross by Rafiki Saïd around the 20th minute. However, a foul was commited by Les Coelacanthes in the buildup and the goal was ruled out following a VAR review.

For the Chipolopolo Boys, their best chance arrived close to halftime but star midfielder Kings Kangwa curled his shot just over the goal from distance.

The theme of poor attacking continued throughout the second half with little urgency from both sides in a must-win match considering the presence of group favorites Morocco and Mali. Chipolopolo goalkeeper Willard Mwanza failed to claim an early cross in the 81st minute but Faïz Selemani headed over the unguarded goal.

Now the islanders must win their final Group A match against Mali on Monday to have any chance of advancing to the Round of 16. Elimination likely awaits Zambia, who will likely need at least a draw against hosts Morocco on the same day to stay alive in the tournament.