Patson Daka’s late injury-time goal rescued a vital point for the Chipolopolo Boys in their opening match against Mali on Monday at the Mohamed V Stadium in Casablanca.
The match started with end-to-end action, but Mali created the better chances, registering one shot on target while Zambia had none. The Eagles were awarded a penalty following a VAR review in the 42nd minute after Mathews Banda fouled Nene Dorgeles in the box. However, El Bilal Touré failed to convert from the spot, with Willard Mwanza producing a superb save in what was a standout performance.
The match went into the break goalless, largely thanks to Mwanza’s heroics in goal. The second half was evenly contested, with both teams creating chances, but Mali broke the deadlock in the 61st minute through Lassine Sinayoko, who finished from close range after the Zambian defence poorly dealt with a corner kick.
With four minutes of added time remaining, Mathews Banda whipped in a cross that found Patson Daka, whose diving header found the back of the net to secure a dramatic equaliser.
Daka has now scored 22 goals in 52 appearances for Zambia, drawing level with Collins Mbesuma, who reached the same tally in 65 matches. He is also just one goal shy of equalling Christopher Katongo’s all-time international goal record of 23.
“I am excited; I think it’s a motivation as well. We all know how big a name Collins Mbesuma is; he is an inspiration not only for me but for everyone in the team,. I am just hoping that if I break that record hopefully it’s going to help the team get maximum points in the game,” Daka said when asked about matching Mbesuma’s record and the prospect of surpassing it in the next match.
On ending his goal drought, he added, “God has always been my strength. And I always believed that what is mine is always going to be mine and it will happen at the right time.”
“And I don’t rush anything. I always do what I’m supposed to do. And when the right time comes, it will happen. And I’m just glad that it has happened today. I know the quality that I bring to the team. I always try to help the team in every area that I can, not only in scoring, but in whatever contribution I can give to the team. That’s an important one for me.”
Meanwhile, head coach Moses Sichone praised his side’s fighting spirit despite the challenges.
“It’s never easy to play the first game. Mali scored early because we gifted them the goal. My team struggled a bit, but I also have to praise the boys for keeping calm and ensuring we left the game at nil all at half time,” said Sichone.
Zambia will next face Comoros on Friday in Casablanca, while Mali take on hosts Morocco.
Morocco currently top Group A with three points following their 2-0 victory over Comoros on Sunday, while Zambia and Mali are level on one point each.
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