CAF Africa Cup of Nations
Mali 1 – 1 Zambia FT
Patson Daka ended a 20-month goal drought for Zambia with his late header in Casablanca [Getty Images]
Patson Daka emerged as the hero for Zambia, scoring a late equalizer with a header that secured a thrilling 1-1 draw against Mali in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) held in Casablanca.
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Mali took the lead early in the second half through Lassine Sinayoko, who found the net from close range after his initial shot from a corner was blocked.
The Malians maintained dominance throughout the match and came close to doubling their lead just before half-time when Nene Dorgeles was fouled by Matthews Banda in the penalty area.
El Bilal Toure stepped up for the penalty, but Zambia goalkeeper Willard Mwanza delivered a stellar save to keep the score level.
Despite being under pressure for much of the match, Zambia managed to snatch a point when Daka capitalized on a cross from Banda to level the score.
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Both teams now find themselves two points behind tournament hosts Morocco, who won their opening fixture 2-0 against Comoros on Sunday.
Zambia will remain in Casablanca for their next match against Comoros on Friday, while Mali will head to Rabat for a critical clash with Morocco.
Zambia Coach in Badge Controversy
Moses Sichone made his coaching debut for Zambia after missing two recent friendlies due to food poisoning [Getty Images]
Mali will likely feel the most regret after having the clearer chances, with Dorgeles narrowly missing the target before the penalty was awarded and Sinayoko failing to convert a near opportunity to make it 2-0, sending his shot just past the post.
For Mali’s coach Tom Saintfiet, who previously led The Gambia at the 2021 and 2023 Afcon tournaments, the pressing issue will be enhancing his team’s finishing as they prepare to face the host nation.
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Zambia, on the other hand, will draw some encouragement from this result following the recent departure of former coach Avram Grant, who left after a disappointing 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign.
Newly appointed coach Moses Sichone missed both friendly matches last month due to illness and now finds himself in a dispute regarding his coaching qualifications.
The Confederation of African Football (Caf) has informed Zambia that Sichone’s Uefa A License is insufficient for him to be officially recognized as a head coach at the tournament.
The governing body insists that he must possess a Caf A or Uefa Pro License to hold that title officially.
However, due to his prior contract as an assistant coach under Grant before the new regulations took effect, he is permitted to remain on the bench with the designation of assistant coach.