Zambia's Daka Grabs Late Leveler to Earn Zambia Versus Mali at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Patson Daka brought to a close a extended goal drought for Zambia with his dramatic header in Morocco.
Patson Daka was the the hero for Chipolopolo as his injury-time header secured a nail-biting 1-1 draw against Mali at the 2025 continental finals in Morocco.
Mali Takes First-Half Control
Lassine Sinayoko had broken the deadlock around the hour mark in the tournament's opening group encounter at the Stade Mohammed V, drilling home from close range after his initial attempt from a corner kick had been parried.
Mali dictated the play and had an opportunity to take the lead in the final moments of the first half after Nene Dorgeles was tripped in the penalty area by Chipolopolo defender Matthews Banda.
The designated penalty taker stepped up for the Eagles but his powerful strike was superbly saved by Zambia goalkeeper Willard Mwanza.
The Striker's Late Header
The Leicester City man eventually rescued a point for the 2012 Afcon winners, who were largely outmuscled by the robust play of their opponents until Banda's delivery into the box was met by the striker.
Group A Standings
The result means each team two points behind host nation the Atlas Lions in the Group A table after the Atlas Lions claimed victory in their opening game 2-0 against the Coelacanths at the weekend.
Zambia will stay in Casablanca to face their next game against Comoros on Friday, while Mali journey to the capital for a crunch encounter against Morocco.
