Zambia's Daka Nets Late Goal for Zambia Against Mali in Afcon.
Patson Daka brought to a close a extended goal dry spell for Zambia with his dramatic header in Morocco.
Patson Daka proved to be the hero for the Zambian side as his injury-time header earned a nail-biting 1-1 draw against Mali at the 2025 continental finals in Morocco.
Eagles Seize Early Initiative
The Malian attacker had put Mali ahead just after the 60-minute mark in the Group A fixture at the Stade Mohammed V, firing in from close range after his initial attempt from a set-piece had been blocked.
Mali dictated the play and were awarded an golden chance to go in front in the final moments of the first half after a Malian forward 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 brilliantly parried by Chipolopolo goalkeeper Willard Mwanza.
Daka's Late Header
Daka later secured a point for the 2012 Afcon winners, who were largely outmuscled by the robust play of the Malians until Banda's delivery into the box was powered home by the attacker.
Tournament Standings
The result means both sides two points behind tournament hosts the Atlas Lions in the group standings after the Atlas Lions claimed victory in their opening game 2-0 against the Coelacanths on Sunday.
Chipolopolo will stay in the city to play their next game against their next opponents on the coming Friday, while Mali travel to the capital for a crunch showdown against the host nation.
