Zambia's Daka Nets Injury-Time Equaliser to Earn Zambia Against Mali at Afcon.
Patson Daka brought to a close a extended goal drought for Zambia with his dramatic header in Casablanca.
Zambia's star striker was the the match-saver for Chipolopolo as his stoppage-time header clinched a nail-biting 1-1 draw against Mali at the Afcon 2025 in Casablanca.
Eagles Seize First-Half Lead
The Malian attacker had broken the deadlock just after the 60-minute mark in the tournament's opening group encounter at the iconic Casablanca stadium, lashing home from point-blank range after his initial attempt from a corner kick had been blocked.
Mali dominated possession and had an golden chance to take the lead in the final moments of the opening period after a Malian forward was brought down in the penalty area by Zambian defender Matthews Banda.
El Bilal Toure took responsibility for Mali but his powerful strike was brilliantly parried by Chipolopolo shot-stopper Willard Mwanza.
The Striker's Late Intervention
Daka eventually salvaged a draw for the 2012 Afcon winners, who were for the most part outmuscled by the aerial strength of the Malians until the defender's lofted cross was met by the forward.
Group A Outlook
This draw leaves both sides two points behind tournament hosts the Atlas Lions in the group standings after the Atlas Lions won their opening game 2-0 against Comoros at the weekend.
Chipolopolo will remain in Casablanca to play their next game against Comoros on Friday, while The Eagles journey to Rabat for a pivotal encounter against Morocco.
