Zambia and Comoros played out a frustrating 0–0 draw in their second Group A match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on Friday, December 26, at the Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca.
Despite a lively atmosphere and early intent from both sides, neither team could find a breakthrough, extending their respective winless runs in the tournament.
Comoros nearly made the perfect start in the sixth minute when a corner caused panic in the Zambian defence.
Myziane Maolida got a shot on target, but a goal-line clearance denied the Islanders an early opener.
The Comorians continued to show attacking intent and thought they had taken the lead midway through the first half.
Rafiki Saïd produced a brilliant solo run before squaring the ball for Maolida to tap into an empty net, but celebrations were cut short after Yacine Bourhane was penalised for a foul in the build-up.
Zambia gradually grew into the contest, relying heavily on long-throw situations to create danger.
Their best chance of the half fell to Kings Kangwa, whose long-range effort sailed narrowly over the crossbar.
While Comoros appeared the more adventurous side overall, clear-cut chances were scarce after the break.
The closest either team came to scoring arrived in the 81st minute when Faïz Selemani delivered an inviting cross, but the resulting header drifted just over the bar.
Both coaches made several substitutions in search of a winning goal, yet neither side found the cutting edge required to break the deadlock.
The point suits Zambia slightly more, following their opening draw against Mali, although they now face tournament favourites Morocco in their final group match — a fixture that could leave them relying on other results.
For Comoros, the draw keeps their hopes alive as they prepare to face Mali on Monday, December 29.
A positive result could see them reach the AFCON knockout stage for only the second time in their history, with Group A set to be decided on the final matchday.
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Story by Xavier Mensah | univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by Erica Odeenyin Odoom
