Zambia's Daka Nets Stoppage-Time Equaliser to Earn Zambia Against Mali at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Patson Daka halted a 20-month goal dry spell for Zambia with his dramatic header in Morocco.
Patson Daka was the the match-saver for his nation as his injury-time header secured a dramatic 1-1 draw against Mali at the 2025 continental finals in Casablanca.
Eagles Seize Early Initiative
Lassine Sinayoko had put Mali ahead around the hour mark in the tournament's opening group fixture at the iconic Casablanca stadium, drilling home from point-blank range after his initial attempt from a set-piece had been blocked.
The Eagles dominated possession and were awarded an golden chance to take the lead in the final moments of the first half after a Malian forward was fouled in the box by Chipolopolo defender Matthews Banda.
El Bilal Toure stepped up for Mali but his well-hit shot was superbly saved by Chipolopolo shot-stopper Willard Mwanza.
The Striker's Late Intervention
Daka eventually salvaged a point for the 2012 Afcon winners, who were largely outmuscled by the physical dominance of the Malians until Banda's pinpoint pass was powered home by the attacker.
Group A Table
The result means each team two points behind tournament hosts 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.
Chipolopolo will stay in Casablanca to face their second fixture against their next opponents on the coming Friday, while Mali journey to the capital for a crucial showdown against Morocco.
