Patson Daka Grabs Injury-Time Leveler to Earn Zambia Against Mali in Afcon.
Patson Daka halted a lengthy goal barren run for Zambia with his dramatic header in Casablanca.
Patson Daka emerged as the hero for the Zambian side as his stoppage-time header earned a nail-biting 1-1 share of the points against Mali at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Casablanca.
Eagles Seize First-Half Initiative
The Malian attacker had broken the deadlock just after the 60-minute mark in the tournament's opening group fixture at the Stade Mohammed V, firing in from point-blank range after his initial attempt from a set-piece had been blocked.
Mali dominated possession and were awarded an golden chance to take the lead in the closing stages of the first half after Nene Dorgeles was fouled in the box by Zambian 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 Late Header
The Leicester City man later secured a point for the 2012 Afcon winners, who were for the most part dominated by the aerial strength of their opponents until the defender's lofted cross was met by the forward.
Group A Table
The result leaves each team a couple of points behind tournament hosts the Atlas Lions in the Group A table after the Atlas Lions claimed victory in their first match 2-0 against Comoros on Sunday.
Zambia will stay in the city to face their second fixture against their next opponents on Friday, while The Eagles journey to the capital for a pivotal match against Morocco.
