SOCCER: Zambia equalize late to share spoils with Mali

CASABLANCA – Zambia’s Patson Daka scored with a spectacular diving header in stoppage time as his side came from behind to secure a 1-1 draw with Mali in their opening Group A match of the Africa Cup of Nations on Monday.

Mali controlled much of the encounter but were punished for sitting back late in the game, allowing Zambia to mount a strong finish. Daka soared through the air to convert Mathews Banda’s curling cross two minutes into stoppage time, stunning the Mali defense.

Lassine Sinayoko had given Mali a 62nd-minute lead after his strike partner, El Bilal Toure, saw a first-half penalty saved.

The penalty was awarded following a VAR review when Zambia defender Banda clipped the heel of Dorgeles Nene as he attempted to clear the ball. However, Toure’s 42nd-minute spot kick was well saved by Zambia goalkeeper Willard Mwanza.

Nene caused constant problems for Zambia’s defense with his darting runs down the left flank, while Sinayoko and Toure formed a difficult attacking partnership. Mali appeared on course for a comfortable three points for much of the match.

Sinayoko nearly opened the scoring after 15 minutes when he stole possession from the Zambia defense, but his effort was saved.

Mwanza was helpless for Mali’s goal as Toure first saw his effort from a corner blocked. Sinayoko then had two attempts denied before finally smashing the rebound home from close range. Zambia’s defense was caught off guard as the corner floated into the box.

ZAMBIA FIGHT BACK

Conceding the goal sparked Zambia into life, and they pushed forward relentlessly in the closing stages as Mali dropped deeper to protect their lead.

Captain Fashion Sakala had a back-post effort blocked with 15 minutes remaining, while Dominic Chanda’s acrobatic overhead kick was later caught by Mali goalkeeper Djigui Diarra.

Zambia’s pressure eventually paid off when Daka delivered a dramatic equalizer to earn a valuable point.

Mali will face hosts Morocco in Rabat on Friday, while Zambia take on Comoros in Casablanca on the same day.

Morocco currently top the group after opening the tournament with a 2-0 victory over Comoros on Sunday in Rabat.

Later on Monday, Group B action begins with Angola facing South Africa in Marrakech, followed by Egypt taking on Zimbabwe in Agadir. -Reporting by Mark Gleeson; Editing by Hugh Lawson/Reuters