Patson Daka Grabs Stoppage-Time Equaliser for Zambia Against Mali at Afcon.
Patson Daka halted a extended goal barren run for Zambia with his late header in Casablanca.
Patson Daka proved to be the savior for his nation as his stoppage-time header secured a thrilling 1-1 tie against Mali at the Afcon 2025 in Morocco.
Mali Takes First-Half Lead
The Malian attacker had broken the deadlock just after the hour mark in the Group A fixture at the iconic Casablanca stadium, firing in from close range after his first effort from a set-piece had been blocked.
Mali dominated possession and had an golden chance to take the lead in the closing stages of the first half after a Malian forward was fouled in the penalty area by Zambian defender Matthews Banda.
El Bilal Toure stepped up for Mali but his powerful strike was expertly kept out by Chipolopolo goalkeeper Willard Mwanza.
Daka's Late Header
The Leicester City man eventually secured a point for the former champions, who were largely dominated by the aerial strength of the Malians until the defender's pinpoint pass was powered home by the striker.
Tournament Standings
The result means both sides a couple of points behind host nation Morocco in the group standings after Morocco won their first match 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 Mali journey to the capital for a crunch showdown against Morocco.
