Patson Daka Nets Late Equaliser for Zambia Against Mali in the Africa Cup of Nations.
Patson Daka halted a lengthy goal dry spell for Zambia with his last-gasp header in Casablanca.
Patson Daka emerged as the hero for Chipolopolo as his stoppage-time header secured a dramatic 1-1 tie against Mali at the 2025 continental finals in Casablanca.
Eagles Seize Early Lead
Lassine Sinayoko had put Mali ahead around the 60-minute mark in the Group A clash at the iconic Casablanca stadium, drilling home from point-blank range after his initial attempt from a corner kick had been parried.
The Eagles controlled the tempo and had an golden chance to take the lead in the final moments of the first half after a Malian forward was brought down in the penalty area by Zambian defender Matthews Banda.
The designated penalty taker stepped up for the Eagles but his well-hit shot was brilliantly parried by Chipolopolo shot-stopper Willard Mwanza.
The Striker's Heroic Intervention
The Leicester City man later rescued a point for the 2012 Afcon winners, who were largely dominated by the aerial strength of their opponents until Banda's lofted cross was powered home by the attacker.
Tournament Standings
The result leaves each team a couple of points behind host nation the Atlas Lions in the group standings after the Atlas Lions claimed victory in their opening game 2-0 against Comoros on Sunday.
Chipolopolo will stay in the city to play their second fixture against Comoros on the coming Friday, while Mali travel to the capital for a pivotal encounter against the host nation.