Patson Daka scored a dramatic 92nd-minute equalizer to earn Zambia a 1-1 draw against Mali after Lassine Sinayoko had given the Eagles a second-half lead in their AFCON 2025 opener.
Zambia secured a dramatic 1-1 draw against Mali in their opening Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Group A match at the Stade Mohamed V on Monday.
Despite Mali dominating large portions of the encounter, they were forced to share the points after a lapse in defensive concentration during the final moments.
The result leaves Morocco as the early leaders of the group following their previous victory over Comoros.
Mali squandered a golden opportunity to take the lead in the first half when El Bilal Touré’s penalty was saved by Willard Mwanza.
The Eagles eventually broke the deadlock in the 62nd minute through Lassine Sinayoko, who fired home after a scramble in the box.
Reflecting on the missed chances, Mali coach Tom Saintfiet stated, “We need to be very focused,” as his side failed to capitalize on their tactical control.
The “Copper Bullets” struggled to register shots for much of the game but found a lifeline two minutes into stoppage time.
Leicester City forward Patson Daka met Mathews Banda’s curling cross with a spectacular diving header to stun the Malian defense.
“Cometh the hour, cometh the man,” remarked analysts as Daka’s clinical finish ensured Zambia avoided defeat and maintained their unbeaten competitive record against the West African side.