Zambia's Daka Nets Injury-Time Equaliser for Zambia Against Mali at Afcon.
The Leicester City forward ended a lengthy goal drought for Zambia with his dramatic header in Morocco.
Patson Daka emerged as the hero for his nation as his injury-time header earned a thrilling 1-1 tie against Mali at the 2025 continental finals in Morocco.
Mali Takes First-Half Initiative
The Malian attacker had put Mali ahead just after the hour mark in the Group A clash at the iconic Casablanca stadium, firing in from close range after his initial attempt from a corner kick had been blocked.
The Eagles dictated the play and had an opportunity to take the lead in the closing stages of the first half after a Malian forward was fouled in the penalty area by Chipolopolo defender Matthews Banda.
El Bilal Toure took responsibility for the Eagles but his powerful strike was expertly kept out by Zambia goalkeeper Willard Mwanza.
Daka's Dramatic Header
Daka eventually secured a draw for the former champions, who were largely dominated by the physical dominance of the Malians until Banda's pinpoint pass was met by the forward.
Group A Table
The result means both sides two points behind host nation the Atlas Lions in the group standings after the Atlas Lions claimed victory in their opening game 2-0 against the Coelacanths on Sunday.
Zambia will stay in Casablanca to face their second fixture against Comoros on Friday, while Mali travel to Rabat for a pivotal match against Morocco.
