Zambia's Daka Scores Late Goal to Earn Zambia Against Mali at Afcon.
Patson Daka brought to a close a extended goal drought for Zambia with his late header in Casablanca.
Patson Daka emerged as the match-saver for the Zambian side as his injury-time header clinched a thrilling 1-1 share of the points against Mali at the Afcon 2025 in Morocco.
Mali Takes First-Half Control
The Malian attacker had put Mali ahead around the 60-minute mark in the Group A 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 controlled the tempo and were awarded an opportunity to take the lead in the final moments of the first half after Nene Dorgeles was brought down in the penalty area by Zambian defender Matthews Banda.
The designated penalty taker took responsibility for Mali but his low effort was brilliantly parried by Zambia goalkeeper Willard Mwanza.
Daka's Late Response
Daka later secured a draw for the 2012 Afcon winners, who were for the most part outmuscled by the robust play of the Malians until the defender's delivery into the box was powered home by the attacker.
Group A Standings
This draw leaves each team 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 Comoros at the weekend.
Chipolopolo will remain in Casablanca to face their second fixture against their next opponents on the coming Friday, while The Eagles travel to the capital for a crucial match against Morocco.
