Zambia's Daka Nets Injury-Time Equaliser for Zambia Against Mali at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Patson Daka brought to a close a lengthy goal drought for Zambia with his late header in Casablanca.
Patson Daka emerged as the hero for the Zambian side as his injury-time header earned a dramatic 1-1 draw 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 tournament's opening group clash at the Stade Mohammed V, firing in from point-blank range after his initial attempt from a set-piece had been deflected.
Mali dominated possession and had an golden chance to take the lead in the final moments of the first half after a Malian forward was tripped in the penalty area by Zambian defender Matthews Banda.
El Bilal Toure took responsibility for the Eagles but his well-hit shot was brilliantly parried by Chipolopolo goalkeeper Willard Mwanza.
The Striker's Late Intervention
Daka later secured a draw for the 2012 Afcon winners, who were for the most part overwhelmed by the aerial strength of their opponents until Banda's delivery into the box was met by the forward.
Tournament Outlook
The result leaves each team two points behind tournament hosts the Atlas Lions in the Group A table after the Atlas Lions won their opening game 2-0 against Comoros at the weekend.
Chipolopolo will stay in the city to face their second fixture against Comoros on Friday, while Mali journey to Rabat for a crucial showdown against Morocco.
