Patson Daka Grabs Late Equaliser for Zambia Versus Mali at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Patson Daka brought to a close a 20-month goal barren run for Zambia with his late header in Casablanca.
Zambia's star striker was the the hero for Chipolopolo as his dying-moments header earned a dramatic 1-1 share of the points against Mali at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Casablanca.
Mali Takes First-Half Lead
Lassine Sinayoko had put Mali ahead around the hour mark in the Group A encounter at the Stade Mohammed V, firing in from point-blank range after his initial attempt from a corner kick had been blocked.
Mali dictated the play and had an opportunity to go in front in the closing stages of the opening period after a Malian forward was tripped in the box by Zambian defender Matthews Banda.
El Bilal Toure stepped up for Mali but his well-hit shot was expertly kept out by Zambia shot-stopper Willard Mwanza.
The Striker's Late Intervention
Daka later rescued a point for the 2012 Afcon winners, who were largely overwhelmed by the robust play of their opponents until the defender's delivery into the box was met by the forward.
Tournament Outlook
This draw means each team two points behind host nation Morocco in the Group A table after Morocco won their first match 2-0 against the Coelacanths at the weekend.
Chipolopolo will stay in the city to face their next game against Comoros on the coming Friday, while The Eagles travel to Rabat for a pivotal match against the host nation.
