Zambia's Daka Nets Late Leveler for Zambia Versus Mali in the Africa Cup of Nations.

Patson Daka celebrating his crucial goal

The Leicester City forward brought to a close a 20-month goal drought for Zambia with his late header in Casablanca.

Patson Daka emerged as the hero for his nation as his injury-time header earned a dramatic 1-1 share of the points against Mali at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Eagles Seize First-Half Initiative

Lassine Sinayoko had put Mali ahead just after the hour mark in the Group A encounter at the Stade Mohammed V, firing in from close range after his first effort from a corner kick had been parried.

The Eagles dictated the play and were awarded an golden chance to go in front in the final moments of the first half after Nene Dorgeles was tripped in the box by Chipolopolo defender Matthews Banda.

The designated penalty taker took responsibility for Mali but his powerful strike was brilliantly parried by Chipolopolo goalkeeper Willard Mwanza.

The Striker's Heroic Response

Daka eventually rescued a point for the former champions, who were for the most part outmuscled by the robust play of their opponents until the defender's pinpoint pass was pounced upon by the striker.

Group A Outlook

The result leaves each team a couple of points behind host nation Morocco in the group standings after Morocco won their first match 2-0 against the Coelacanths on Sunday.

Chipolopolo will stay in the city to face their next game against their next opponents on the coming Friday, while Mali journey to Rabat for a pivotal encounter against the host nation.

Gregory White
Gregory White

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