Patson Daka Grabs Late Goal to Earn Zambia Against Mali at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Patson Daka halted a 20-month goal drought for Zambia with his last-gasp header in Morocco.
Patson Daka proved to be the savior for Chipolopolo as his dying-moments header secured a dramatic 1-1 draw against Mali at the Afcon 2025 in Casablanca.
Eagles Seize Early Lead
Lassine Sinayoko had broken the deadlock shortly after the hour mark in the Group A encounter at the iconic Casablanca stadium, drilling home from close range after his first effort from a set-piece had been blocked.
Mali dominated possession and had an opportunity to take the lead in the closing stages of the first half after a Malian forward was brought down in the penalty area by Chipolopolo defender Matthews Banda.
El Bilal Toure stepped up for Mali but his low effort was expertly kept out by Zambia goalkeeper Willard Mwanza.
Daka's Dramatic Intervention
Daka eventually salvaged a point for the 2012 Afcon winners, who were largely outmuscled by the aerial strength of their opponents until Banda's lofted cross was met by the striker.
Group A Outlook
This draw leaves each team two points behind tournament hosts the Atlas Lions in the group standings after the Atlas Lions claimed victory in their opening game 2-0 against the Coelacanths on Sunday.
Chipolopolo will remain in the city to play their next game against their next opponents on the coming Friday, while The Eagles journey to Rabat for a crunch showdown against the host nation.
