Dakaâ??s stoppage-time header rescues point for Zambia against Mali

Patson Daka’s stoppage-time header earned Zambia a dramatic 1-1 draw against Mali in a tense Group A fixture at the Stade Mohammed V in Casablanca.

Mali dominated large spells of the match, controlling possession and pushing Zambia deep from the outset. Mamadou Sangaré and Lassine Sinayoko dictated play in midfield, while El Bilal Toure’s movement posed constant problems.

Despite their control, Mali struggled to convert dominance into clear chances, with Zambian goalkeeper Willard Mwanza producing several key saves, including a penalty stop to deny Touré.

The breakthrough came in the 61st minute when a loose ball fell kindly to Sinayoko, who fired powerfully under the crossbar to give Mali a deserved lead. Zambia responded by increasing their tempo, with Fashion Sakala leading the counter-attacks, but Mali’s defence held firm for most of the closing stages.

However, deep into stoppage time, Zambia capitalised on a lapse in marking as Daka rose highest to head home an equaliser, snatching a valuable point. Mali were left frustrated after failing to turn control into victory, while Zambia showed resilience and belief to the final whistle.

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