Mali had looked set to claim all three points after dominating long spells of the contest, but a late lapse in concentration allowed the Zambian to strike at the death and earn the Chipolopolo a valuable point. Mali scored in the 61st minute when Lassine Sinayoko reacted quickly to a loose ball, smashing it in beneath the crossbar.  

But Daka’s header in the 92nd minute secured a valuable point for the Copper Bullets and will push both teams at their next games, against Comoros and Morocco, respectively.

After the match, Zambia’s coach Moses Sichone was full of praise for his team. “My players did the job against Mali. 

Zambia snatched a 1-1 draw in a Group A encounter against Mali. Photo: FAZ

“It was our opening match, and it was not easy. We conceded a goal at an unexpected moment, a gift we gave away, and that is something we must correct. 

“A match lasts 90 minutes, and you should never give up. That is why I pushed my players right to the end. We are in a very competitive group, and I congratulate Morocco on their win against Comoros. 

“Our next opponents, Comoros, put in a solid performance. We will prepare well and continue to work. We have our strengths and players who are ready.”

Egypt right-back Mohamed Hany in action during the match against Zimbabwe. Photo: EFA

In Monday’s other game, Mo Salah gave Egypt the win over Zimbabwe when he struck in stoppage time to secure a 2-1 victory for his team in Group B. The seven-time champions appeared to be heading towards a damaging opening-day setback despite dominating possession. 

Zimbabwe struck first in the 20th minute, courtesy of Prince Dube, but Egypt retaliated after the break when Omar Marmoush hammered home in the 64th minute. But it was the Liverpool forward who sealed the deal for Egypt when he latched on to a loose ball in stoppage time and pocketed three points for the seven-time champions.

Egypt will face South Africa next in Agadir on Friday, while Zimbabwe travel to Marrakesh to take on Angola.

OFM Sport/Ilse Smalberger