Patson Daka Nets Injury-Time Goal to Earn Zambia Against Mali in Afcon.
Patson Daka ended a extended goal drought for Zambia with his last-gasp header in Casablanca.
Patson Daka emerged as the savior for his nation as his injury-time header earned a dramatic 1-1 tie against Mali at the Afcon 2025 in Morocco.
Eagles Seize Early Initiative
Lassine Sinayoko had broken the deadlock shortly after the hour mark in the Group A encounter at the iconic Casablanca stadium, drilling home from point-blank range after his first effort from a set-piece had been blocked.
The Eagles dominated possession and had an opportunity to go in front in the final moments of the opening period after a Malian forward was tripped 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.
The Striker's Heroic Header
The Leicester City man later secured a draw for the former champions, who were largely dominated by the aerial strength of their opponents until Banda's delivery into the box was pounced upon by the forward.
Group A Standings
This draw leaves both sides a couple of points behind host nation Morocco in the Group A table after the Atlas Lions claimed victory in their first match 2-0 against the Coelacanths on Sunday.
Chipolopolo will remain in Casablanca to play their second fixture against Comoros on Friday, while Mali journey to the capital for a crucial encounter against Morocco.
