AFCON 25: Patson Daka’s injury-time leveller earned Zambia a point against Mali

The Copper Bullets looked destined for defeat for long periods, struggling to impose themselves as Mali dominated possession and controlled the tempo of the match.

Mali’s authority was evident from the early stages, with their attacking duo of El Bilal Touré and Lassine Sinayoko causing constant problems for the Zambian back line. Touré had a golden opportunity to put Mali ahead in the first half from the penalty spot, but Zambia goalkeeper Willard Mwanza came to his side’s rescue with a crucial save that kept the scores level at the break.

Mali eventually made their pressure count in the 62nd minute. Capitalising on a moment of defensive hesitation, Sinayoko reacted quickest inside the box to fire home and give his side a deserved lead. From that point, Mali appeared comfortable, slowing the game down and limiting Zambia’s attacking threat.

However, that approach proved costly. As the match entered its final moments, Zambia pushed forward with renewed urgency, refusing to accept defeat. Their persistence was rewarded deep into stoppage time when substitute Mathews Banda delivered a perfectly weighted curling cross into the penalty area.