Zambia's Daka Scores Late Goal for Zambia Against Mali in the Africa Cup of Nations.
Patson Daka ended a lengthy goal dry spell for Zambia with his dramatic header in Casablanca.
Patson Daka was the the match-saver for the Zambian side as his injury-time header earned a dramatic 1-1 tie against Mali at the 2025 continental finals in Casablanca.
Mali Takes Early Control
The Malian attacker had put Mali ahead just after the 60-minute mark in the tournament's opening group clash at the iconic Casablanca stadium, firing in from close range after his first effort from a corner kick had been parried.
The Eagles controlled the tempo and had an golden chance 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.
The designated penalty taker stepped up for Mali but his well-hit shot was superbly saved by Zambia goalkeeper Willard Mwanza.
The Striker's Dramatic Intervention
Daka eventually salvaged a point for the former champions, who were for the most part overwhelmed by the physical dominance of their opponents until Banda's pinpoint pass was pounced upon by the forward.
Group A Outlook
The result means both sides two points behind tournament hosts Morocco in the group standings after Morocco claimed victory in their opening game 2-0 against the Coelacanths at the weekend.
Zambia will stay in Casablanca to play their next game against Comoros on the coming Friday, while The Eagles travel to the capital for a pivotal encounter against Morocco.
