Mali were denied a winning start to their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign after Zambia struck deep into stoppage time to force a 1–1 draw in their Group A opener on Monday, Bold Sports reports.
The Eagles appeared set to collect all three points at the Stade Mohamed V after a dominant display, but a dramatic late equaliser ensured both sides settled for a share of the spoils.
Mali controlled large spells of the game from the start and created the better chances in the first half, but wastefulness in front of goal proved costly. Their clearest opportunity came in the 41st minute when Dorgeles Nene was brought down in the box.
However, El Bilal Touré failed to convert from the spot as Zambia goalkeeper Willard Mwanza produced a fine save to keep the scores level at the break.
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Mali maintained their grip on the game after half-time and finally made the breakthrough in the 61st minute. Lassine Sinayoko reacted quickest to a poorly defended corner, firing home to give his side a deserved lead.
Zambia struggled to impose themselves for much of the second period, with Mali continuing to threaten. Sinayoko went close to doubling the advantage with an effort that drifted narrowly wide, while Zambia found it difficult to test the Malian backline.
Just as Mali looked poised to get all three points, Zambia snatched an equaliser in stoppage time as Patson Daka powered in a flying header, silencing the Malian celebrations and rescuing a point for his side.
The late drama leaves both Mali and Zambia on one point apiece in Group A. Mali will next turn their attention to a tougher test against hosts Morocco, while Zambia face Comoros who will be desperate for their first points of the tournament.
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