Zambia's Daka Grabs Injury-Time Leveler to Earn Zambia Versus Mali at the Africa Cup of Nations.
The Leicester City forward ended a 20-month goal dry spell for Zambia with his last-gasp header in Casablanca.
Patson Daka proved to be the hero for Chipolopolo as his injury-time header secured a nail-biting 1-1 share of the points against Mali at the Afcon 2025 in Morocco.
Mali Takes First-Half Lead
Lassine Sinayoko had given his side the lead around the hour mark in the Group A fixture at the iconic Casablanca stadium, drilling home from point-blank range after his first effort from a set-piece had been parried.
Mali dominated possession and were awarded an opportunity to take the lead in the closing stages of the first half after a Malian forward was fouled in the box by Zambian defender Matthews Banda.
El Bilal Toure took responsibility for Mali but his powerful strike was superbly saved by Chipolopolo shot-stopper Willard Mwanza.
The Striker's Late Header
Daka eventually secured a point for the 2012 Afcon winners, who were for the most part outmuscled by the robust play of their opponents until Banda's delivery into the box was powered home by the striker.
Tournament Table
This draw means both sides two points behind tournament hosts Morocco in the group standings after the Atlas Lions claimed victory in their opening game 2-0 against Comoros at the weekend.
Chipolopolo will remain in Casablanca to play their next game against Comoros on the coming Friday, while The Eagles travel to the capital for a crucial match against Morocco.
