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Zambia Snatches Stoppage-Time Draw Against Mali in AFCON Opener

12/23/2025

25 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Daka Secures Draw

Patson Daka (Zambia international) scored a stoppage-time header to secure a 1-1 draw for Zambia against Mali in the AFCON 2025 opener in Casablanca.
Lassine Sinayoko (Mali) scored in the 61st minute after a penalty save by Willard Mwanza (Zambia).
Zambia have not won in their last ten AFCON matches.
Both teams now trail Morocco in Group A, with Zambia facing Comoros next.

History

Historical Context

The 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), hosted by Egypt from June 21 to July 19, marked a pivotal change in African football, expanding from 16 to 24 teams. Algeria triumphed over Senegal 1-0, claiming their second title since 1990. Meanwhile, Zambia's ongoing struggles, including a ten-match winless streak, highlight the increasing competitiveness and challenges within the tournament's evolving landscape.

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Daka Secures Draw

Patson Daka (Zambia international) scored a stoppage-time header to secure a 1-1 draw for Zambia against Mali in the AFCON 2025 opener in Casablanca.
Lassine Sinayoko (Mali) scored in the 61st minute after a penalty save by Willard Mwanza (Zambia).
Zambia have not won in their last ten AFCON matches.
Both teams now trail Morocco in Group A, with Zambia facing Comoros next.

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