Patson Daka struck a dramatic stoppage-time equaliser to earn Zambia a vital 1–1 draw against Mali in their tense TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025 Group A clash on Monday.
The Leicester City forward rose highest in added time to deny Mali a deserved win after the Eagles had dominated large portions of the contest.
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Mali took control from the opening whistle, dictating the tempo and pinning Zambia deep into their own half. The attacking trio of Mamadou Sangaré, Lassine Sinayoko and El Bilal Touré constantly threatened, but Zambia goalkeeper Willard Mwanza stood firm with a series of crucial saves, including a superb penalty stop to keep his side alive.
The breakthrough eventually arrived just after the hour mark when Sinayoko pounced on a loose ball inside the box, smashing home a powerful finish to give Mali a deserved lead.
The Eagles appeared comfortable, especially after head coach Tom Saintfiet introduced defensive reinforcements to protect the advantage.
Zambia, however, refused to give in. Led by the pace and determination of Fashion Sakala, the Chipolopolo pushed forward in search of an equaliser.
Their persistence paid off deep into stoppage time when Daka’s towering header stunned the Casablanca stadium and secured a priceless point.
The result leaves Mali frustrated after failing to make their dominance count, while Zambia will draw confidence from their resilience and fighting spirit.