AFCON: Sichone impressed with Zambia after comeback Mali draw

Zambia national team coach Moses Sichone says patience, belief, and trust in his players helped Zambia secure a draw against Mali in their opening fixture of the 2025 Africs Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco on Monday.

The Chipolopolo came from behind to earn a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Mali at the Mohammed V Stadium. Patson Daka’s dramatic stoppage-time header denied Mali what could have been a first win in AFCON 2025.

Mali had looked set to claim all three points after dominating long spells of the contest, but a late lapse in concentration allowed Zambia’s talisman to strike at the death and earn the Chipolopolo a valuable point.

The West Africans had taken the lead courtesy of Lassine Sinayoko, who reacted quickest to a loose ball and smashed a powerful effort beneath the crossbar. However, deep into stoppage time, a lapse in marking proved costly for Mali as Daka rose highest in the box to power home a header.

Speaking after the match, Sichone admitted that starting a tournament against a strong opponent is always difficult.

Zambia are in very competitive group

“My players did the job against Mali. 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,” he told reporters after the game as quoted by CAFOnline.com.

“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.”

Sichone further highlighted the importance of star forward Patson Daka, who scored Zambia’s equaliser in added time.

“I know the quality Patson brings, which is why I kept him on the pitch. I’m happy he scored today. Players like him and young talents like Sabobo Banda and David Simukonda showed character and promise. Young players are the way forward,” explained Sichone.

The coach also came to the defence of his squad against criticism on social media.

“I want Facebook coaches to stop attacking our players and start showing them respect,” he said.

Goalkeeper Willard Mwanza was another standout performer, making a vital penalty save.

“I was not moved by the referee’s decision to award Mali a penalty. I trusted myself completely. As the Malian came, I just looked at him and knew I was going to stop his kick,” said Mwanza.

Zambia will now return to action against against Comoros on Friday, December 26 at Stade Mohammed V.

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