Patson Daka Nets Stoppage-Time Goal to Earn Zambia Versus Mali at Afcon.
Patson Daka halted a lengthy goal dry spell for Zambia with his late header in Morocco.
Patson Daka emerged as the match-saver for his nation as his dying-moments header secured a nail-biting 1-1 tie against Mali at the Afcon 2025 in Morocco.
Mali Takes Early Lead
Lassine Sinayoko had broken the deadlock shortly after the hour mark in the tournament's opening group encounter at the iconic Casablanca stadium, lashing home from point-blank range after his initial attempt from a set-piece had been parried.
The Eagles dominated possession and had an golden chance to take the lead in the final moments of the opening period after Nene Dorgeles was brought down in the penalty area by Zambian defender Matthews Banda.
The designated penalty taker took responsibility for the Eagles but his well-hit shot was superbly saved by Chipolopolo goalkeeper Willard Mwanza.
Daka's Late Response
The Leicester City man later rescued a point for the 2012 Afcon winners, who were for the most part overwhelmed by the physical dominance of the Malians until Banda's delivery into the box was met by the striker.
Tournament Outlook
The result means each team a couple of points behind host nation the Atlas Lions in the group standings after Morocco claimed victory in their first match 2-0 against the Coelacanths at the weekend.
Chipolopolo will stay in Casablanca to face their next game against their next opponents on Friday, while Mali travel to Rabat for a crunch showdown against Morocco.
