Zambia showed resilience as they came from behind to secure a 1-1 draw against Mali in their opening Group A fixture of the Africa Cup of Nations.
Mali took the lead in the 61st minute through Lassine Sinayoko, capitalising on poor Zambian defending from a set piece.
The Chipolopolo were slow to react in the box, allowing Sinayoko to score from close range.
However, Zambia responded positively and were rewarded when Patson Daka found the equaliser, restoring parity and keeping Zambia firmly in contention in the group.
The goal lifted confidence in the Zambian camp as they pushed for a late winner, though Mali held on.
The result earns Zambia a valuable point as attention now turns to their next Group A encounter against Comoros on Friday.
Comoros come into the fixture after suffering a 2-0 defeat to Morocco, making the clash crucial for both sides’ qualification hopes.
Zambia Starting XI
- Willard Mwanza 🧤
- Mathews Banda
- Miguel Chaiwa
- Benson Sakala
- Lubambo Musonda
- Lameck Banda
- Fashion Sakala (C)
- Klings Kangwa
- Patson Daka
- Dominic Chanda
- Owen Tembo
Substitutes
- Lawrence Mulenga 🧤
- Obino Chisala
- Frankie Musonda
- Jack Lahne Kalichi
- Joseph Banda
- Wilson Chisala
- Kabaso Chongo
- Given Kalusa
- Francis Mwansa
- Kennedy Musonda
- David Hamansenya
- Joseph Liteta
- Eliya Mandanji
- David Simukonda
