Patson Daka Grabs Injury-Time Equaliser for Zambia Against Mali in Afcon.
The Leicester City forward halted a 20-month goal barren run for Zambia with his last-gasp header in Morocco.
Patson Daka proved to be the match-saver for Chipolopolo as his stoppage-time header earned a dramatic 1-1 share of the points against Mali at the 2025 continental finals in Morocco.
Mali Takes First-Half Initiative
The Malian attacker had given his side the lead around the 60-minute mark in the tournament's opening group clash at the iconic Casablanca stadium, drilling home from close range after his first effort from a corner kick had been deflected.
The Eagles dominated possession and had an golden chance to take the lead in the closing stages of the opening period after a Malian forward was tripped in the box by Zambian defender Matthews Banda.
El Bilal Toure took responsibility for Mali but his powerful strike was expertly kept out by Zambia shot-stopper Willard Mwanza.
The Striker's Late Response
The Leicester City man later secured a draw for the 2012 Afcon winners, who were largely outmuscled by the aerial strength of their opponents until the defender's pinpoint pass was met by the attacker.
Tournament Standings
The result leaves both sides a couple of points behind tournament hosts the Atlas Lions in the group standings after Morocco claimed victory in their opening game 2-0 against the Coelacanths at the weekend.
Zambia will stay in Casablanca to face their second fixture against Comoros on Friday, while The Eagles travel to the capital for a pivotal encounter against Morocco.
