Zambia's Daka Scores Late Equaliser to Earn Zambia Against Mali at Afcon.
The Leicester City forward halted a 20-month goal dry spell for Zambia with his last-gasp header in Morocco.
Patson Daka emerged as the savior for Chipolopolo as his dying-moments header clinched a dramatic 1-1 share of the points against Mali at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Casablanca.
Eagles Seize First-Half Lead
Lassine Sinayoko had broken the deadlock just after the 60-minute 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 corner kick had been parried.
The Eagles controlled the tempo and were awarded an opportunity to take the lead in the final moments of the first half after Nene Dorgeles was fouled in the penalty area by Chipolopolo defender Matthews Banda.
El Bilal Toure took responsibility for Mali but his low effort was brilliantly parried by Zambia shot-stopper Willard Mwanza.
The Striker's Heroic Intervention
The Leicester City man later rescued a point for the former champions, who were for the most part dominated by the physical dominance of the Malians until the defender's delivery into the box was pounced upon by the striker.
Tournament Table
The result means both sides two points behind tournament hosts Morocco in the group standings after the Atlas Lions won their opening game 2-0 against the Coelacanths on Sunday.
Zambia will remain in Casablanca to face their next game against Comoros on Friday, while The Eagles journey to the capital for a crunch encounter against Morocco.
