Patson Daka was the hero for Zambia as his dramatic injury-time header secured a 1-1 draw against Mali in a thrilling Group A clash at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) in Casablanca.

The match, played at the iconic Stade Mohammed V, saw Mali take the lead just after the hour mark when Lassine Sinayoko capitalized on a blocked corner kick to fire home from close range. Mali dominated possession and controlled much of the game, testing Zambia’s defense repeatedly with their physical and fast-paced play.

Missed Opportunities for Mali

Despite their dominance, Mali failed to extend their lead. In the first half’s closing stages, Nene Dorgeles was brought down in the box by Matthews Banda, giving the Eagles a golden penalty opportunity. El Bilal Toure stepped up to take the spot-kick, but his low effort was brilliantly saved by Zambia goalkeeper Willard Mwanza, keeping the visitors in the game.

Mali continued to pressure Zambia, with Sinayoko narrowly missing a chance to double the lead, firing just inches past the right-hand post. Dorgeles also went close, side-footing wide, leaving coach Tom Saintfiet, in his third Afcon tournament, frustrated at his side’s lack of clinical finishing.

Patson Daka’s Heroics

Zambia, who struggled under Mali’s physicality for much of the match, were rewarded in injury time when Matthews Banda delivered a perfectly lofted cross that Patson Daka headed into the back of the net. The Leicester City forward’s finish not only salvaged a point but also lifted the spirits of the 2012 Afcon winners.

The result leaves both Zambia and Mali two points behind host nation Morocco in Group A, after the Atlas Lions defeated Comoros 2-0 in their opening game. Zambia will stay in Casablanca for their next fixture against Comoros on Friday, while Mali travel to Rabat for a crucial showdown with the hosts.

Coaching Headlines: Moses Sichone’s Debut

Zambia’s interim coach Moses Sichone made his debut on the bench after missing two friendly matches last month due to food poisoning. His appointment comes after the departure of former Chelsea manager Avram Grant in October, following a disappointing 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign.

Sichone, 48, is currently embroiled in a coaching badge controversy. The Confederation of African Football (Caf) has stated that his UEFA A License does not meet the minimum requirements to be officially recognized as head coach at the tournament. Only a CAF A License or UEFA Pro License would suffice. However, because he had a pre-existing contract with Zambia as an assistant coach, he has been permitted to sit on the bench under the title of assistant coach.

Looking Ahead

Both teams will look to build on this result. Mali coach Tom Saintfiet will aim to sharpen his team’s finishing ahead of their high-stakes clash against Morocco, while Zambia will be encouraged by Daka’s late heroics as they seek to advance past the group stage.

The draw ensures that Group A remains wide open, with Morocco leading on four points, followed closely by Zambia and Mali, each on one point. Fans can expect more thrilling action as the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 continues to deliver dramatic, edge-of-your-seat football.