Zambia Snatch Dramatic Late Draw Against Mali in AFCON Opener
2 min read
By Sedara Philip
Zambia left it late to secure a dramatic 1-1 draw against Mali in their opening Group A fixture at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on Sunday night in Casablanca.
The Chipolopolo appeared headed for defeat until Leicester City forward Patson Daka struck in the second minute of added time, throwing himself at a Mathews Banda cross to rescue an unlikely point. It was a rare moment of joy for Daka, who has scored just once for Leicester City in the English Championship this season.
Mali dominated large spells of the contest at the Stade Mohammed V and had a golden opportunity to take control of the game before half-time. El Bilal Touré won a penalty after Banda was adjudged to have fouled Nene Dorgeles following a VAR review.
However, Touré’s spot-kick was brilliantly saved by Zambia goalkeeper Willard Mwanza, keeping the score level at the break.
The Eagles of Mali eventually found a breakthrough shortly after the hour mark. Auxerre forward Lassine Sinayoko reacted quickest to a corner kick, firing home from close range on the rebound to put Mali ahead.
Just when it seemed Mali would claim all three points, Zambia produced a stunning late twist. Daka’s stoppage-time equaliser crushed Malian hopes and ensured the spoils were shared in the Group A clash.
The result benefits tournament hosts Morocco, who earlier defeated Comoros 2-0 in the group’s opening match on Sunday.
Morocco and Mali will face off next in Rabat on Friday, while Zambia—who are now winless in their last 10 AFCON matches since lifting the trophy in 2012—will take on Comoros in their second group game.
Sedara Philip is a Sports writer, an administrator,Journalist,and editor
