Mali twice came from behind to draw 2-2 with Uganda in the opening Group D games at the African Nations Championship.

Uganda skipper Farouk Miya assisted and scored a goal before going off injured at half-time.

The Cranes opened the scoring after just 11 minutes when Joseph Ochaya headed home a free kick from Miya.

The Eagles drew level 12 minutes later through Sekou Koita, when he fired past Ismail Watenga in the Ugandan goal after a beautiful control in the box.

Skipper Miya continued his fine run of form when he scored from the penalty spot minutes before half time.

Mali were happy to see the back of Miya who was replaced at half-time after he was taken off injured.

The Malians took full advantage and equalised with thirty minutes to go when striker Hamidou Sinayoko managed to get his foot on the ball and divert it into the net from a Mamadou Coulibaly pass.

In the other game, Zambia edged out neighbours Zimbabwe 1-0

Veteran midfielder Chansa broke the deadlock just before the hour, stretching to convert a beautifully swung free-kick by fellow veteran Chris Katongo.

Zambia had more possession and were in control for large portions of the game.

Zimbabwe’s clearest chance came just before half-time when Edmore Chirambadare was through one-on-one with the keeper but shot wide from eight yards.

It was a first defeat for coach  Kalisto Pasuwa with the Zimbabwe team, having a record of three wins and three draws going into the match.

The next Group D games are on Saturday as Zimbabwe play Mali and Uganda face Zambia.

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