Patson Daka Nets Late Leveler for Zambia Against Mali at Afcon.
Patson Daka halted a 20-month goal dry spell for Zambia with his dramatic header in Morocco.
Zambia's star striker emerged as the savior for the Zambian side as his dying-moments header earned a dramatic 1-1 tie against Mali at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Casablanca.
Mali Takes First-Half Control
Lassine Sinayoko had put Mali ahead just after the 60-minute mark in the tournament's opening group fixture at the iconic Casablanca stadium, lashing home from close range after his first effort from a set-piece had been deflected.
The Eagles dominated possession and had an opportunity to take the lead in the final moments of the first half after Nene Dorgeles was brought down in the box by Chipolopolo defender Matthews Banda.
The designated penalty taker stepped up for the Eagles but his low effort was expertly kept out by Chipolopolo goalkeeper Willard Mwanza.
The Striker's Dramatic Intervention
The Leicester City man eventually rescued a draw for the former champions, who were for the most part overwhelmed by the physical dominance of their opponents until Banda's pinpoint pass was powered home by the attacker.
Tournament Outlook
This draw means both sides a couple of points behind host nation Morocco in the group standings after Morocco won their first match 2-0 against the Coelacanths on Sunday.
Zambia will stay in Casablanca to play their second fixture against their next opponents on the coming Friday, while Mali travel to Rabat for a pivotal showdown against the host nation.