Zambia's Daka Nets Stoppage-Time Leveler to Earn Zambia Against Mali at Afcon.
The Leicester City forward halted a lengthy goal drought for Zambia with his last-gasp header in Morocco.
Patson Daka was the the match-saver for his nation as his stoppage-time header clinched a dramatic 1-1 share of the points against Mali at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Eagles Seize First-Half Lead
Lassine Sinayoko had given his side the lead around the 60-minute mark in the tournament's opening group clash at the Stade Mohammed V, lashing home from point-blank range after his initial attempt from a corner kick had been deflected.
The Eagles dictated the play and had an opportunity to go in front in the closing stages of the opening period after Nene Dorgeles was fouled in the penalty area by Zambian defender Matthews Banda.
The designated penalty taker stepped up for Mali but his well-hit shot was brilliantly parried by Chipolopolo shot-stopper Willard Mwanza.
Daka's Heroic Intervention
Daka later rescued a draw for the former champions, who were for the most part overwhelmed by the physical dominance of their opponents until the defender's pinpoint pass was met by the striker.
Tournament Outlook
The result leaves both sides a couple of points behind tournament hosts Morocco in the Group A table after the Atlas Lions won their opening game 2-0 against the Coelacanths on Sunday.
Chipolopolo will remain in the city to face their next game against Comoros on Friday, while The Eagles travel to Rabat for a crunch showdown against Morocco.
