Zambia and Comoros were forced to settle for a share of the spoils after playing out a goalless 0–0 draw on Friday night at the Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca, in their second Group A match of the CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025.
The encounter was played at a high tempo, with both sides showing tactical discipline and physical intensity, but the much-needed breakthrough proved elusive in a fiercely contested contest where defensive organisation overshadowed attacking flair.
Both teams began the match cautiously, with a tightly packed midfield battle dominating the early stages as neither side was willing to take unnecessary risks. Comoros, however, looked the more adventurous in the opening half and came close to breaking the deadlock in the 19th minute when Mzean Maoulida found the back of the net. Celebrations were short-lived, as the goal was ruled out following a VAR review that identified a foul in the build-up.
Buoyed by that moment, Comoros continued to push forward and enjoyed spells of sustained pressure, but they were repeatedly frustrated by a well-organised and disciplined Zambian defence that remained compact and alert. Zambia, on the other hand, focused on maintaining shape and hitting on the counter, though clear-cut chances were limited before the break.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with Comoros enjoying greater possession and territorial control while Zambia remained resolute at the back. Despite their dominance, Comoros were unable to translate control into goals, with rushed finishing and lapses in concentration costing them at crucial moments in the final third.
As the match wore on, Zambia grew in confidence and looked more comfortable absorbing pressure, ensuring there were no late surprises. The contest eventually ended as it had begun, with neither side able to find a decisive goal.
Following the draw, Zambia moved to two points after two matches, keeping their qualification hopes firmly intact heading into the final round of Group A fixtures. Comoros, meanwhile, collected their first point of the tournament, leaving their chances of reaching the knockout stage alive going into the decisive final match day.
Both teams will now turn their attention to securing their first victory of the group stage, with Comoros set to face Mali, while Zambia prepare for a tough test against tournament hosts Morocco.
