Coulibaly found himself continually frustrated

Zimbabwe's stoic defending kept them in the hunt for the automatic qualification place for the Nations Cup finals in Tunisia next year.

It was clear from the outset that Zimbabwe's target in Mali was to secure a draw.Their squad included just one striker, Peter Ndlovu.

Throughout the first half, the southern Africans did not create a single goalscoring chance.

In contrast, Mali, with Soumaila Coulibaly looking lethal, created a string of chances - but they were denied by the heroics of goalkeeper Murembagoro Energy.

The draw means Zimbabwe are joint leaders with Mali on nine points. But the West Africans top the group on goals difference.

If both teams win their last games, Zimbabwe must beat Eritrea by three clear goals to snatch the automatic qualification ticket.