Patson Daka Nets Stoppage-Time Goal to Earn Zambia Against Mali in the Africa Cup of Nations.
Patson Daka brought to a close a lengthy goal drought for Zambia with his late header in Morocco.
Zambia's star striker proved to be the savior for Chipolopolo as his dying-moments header earned a nail-biting 1-1 share of the points against Mali at the Afcon 2025 in Morocco.
Eagles Seize First-Half Initiative
The Malian attacker had given his side the lead just after the 60-minute mark in the tournament's opening group encounter at the Stade Mohammed V, lashing home from close range after his first effort from a set-piece had been blocked.
Mali controlled the tempo and had an opportunity to take the lead in the closing stages of the opening period after a Malian forward was tripped in the box by Chipolopolo defender Matthews Banda.
El Bilal Toure stepped up for the Eagles but his low effort was superbly saved by Chipolopolo goalkeeper Willard Mwanza.
The Striker's Heroic Intervention
Daka eventually secured a draw for the former champions, who were largely overwhelmed by the robust play of the Malians until Banda's delivery into the box was powered home by the striker.
Group A Standings
The result means both sides a couple of points behind host nation the Atlas Lions in the Group A table after Morocco won their opening game 2-0 against the Coelacanths at the weekend.
Zambia will stay in the city to face their next game against Comoros on Friday, while The Eagles travel to the capital for a crunch encounter against the host nation.
