Mali and Zambia battled to a 1-1 draw in their Group A encounter at the Stade Mohammed V, Casablanca on Monday afternoon.
Mali dominated play in the first half, with Zambia failing to produce a shot on target.
Zambia goalkeeper Willard Mwanza produced a fine save to deny El Bilal Touré from the spot after Dorgeles Nene was tripped up in the penalty area by defender Mathews Banda.
They tried to improve their performance after the second but Mali kept pressuring their defence.
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The Eagles scored the opening goal through Lassine Sinayoko in the 61st minute.
Leicester City forward Patson Daka equalised for Zambia from a header in stoppage time.
Mali will next face hosts and Group A favorites Morocco on Friday.
Chipolopolo will clash against Comoros in a crucial match for both teams’ hopes of reaching the knockout stages.
