Africa-Press – Ghana. Mali and Zambia played out a dramatic 1-1 draw in their opening Group A clash at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) at Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca.
Patson Daka’s stoppage-time heroics ensured the spoils were shared at the end of the match in a pulsating encounter.
The Eagles of Mali signalled their intent early, crafting a neat passing move in the third minute, but failed to convert.
Mali dominated possession for much of the first half, while Zambia sat deep hoping to hit on the counter.
Zambia rarely threatened before the break, and Mali were handed a golden chance in the 38th minute after being awarded a penalty.
El Bilal Touré stepped up but saw his penalty brilliantly saved by Willard Mwanza, keeping the game scoreless at halftime.
After the restart, Mali continued to dictate play and eventually broke the deadlock in the 62nd minute.
Lassine Sinayoko pounced on a loose ball inside the area after Touré’s initial effort was blocked, smashing home from close range to give the Eagles a deserved lead.
Despite stringing passes together, the Chipolopolo of Zambia struggled to create clear openings as Mali’s defence held firm.
Then came the twist, two minutes into stoppage time, when Daka soared through the air to meet Banda’s curling cross with a spectacular diving header.
Morocco now top Group A with three points, while Comoros are bottom with no points. Zambia and Mali have a point each.
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