Patson Daka Nets Late Equaliser for Zambia Versus Mali in the Africa Cup of Nations.
Patson Daka brought to a close a 20-month goal barren run for Zambia with his late header in Morocco.
Patson Daka was the the match-saver for Chipolopolo as his stoppage-time header earned a thrilling 1-1 share of the points against Mali at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Mali Takes First-Half Lead
The Malian attacker had given his side the lead shortly after the hour mark in the Group A clash at the Stade Mohammed V, lashing home from close range after his initial attempt from a corner kick had been blocked.
Mali dictated the play and were awarded an opportunity to take the lead in the final moments of the opening period after a Malian forward was tripped in the box by Chipolopolo defender Matthews Banda.
The designated penalty taker took responsibility for Mali but his low effort was expertly kept out by Zambia shot-stopper Willard Mwanza.
The Striker's Late Header
Daka eventually salvaged a point for the 2012 Afcon winners, who were for the most part dominated by the aerial strength of the Malians until Banda's pinpoint pass was pounced upon by the forward.
Group A Table
The result means each team two points behind host nation the Atlas Lions in the group standings after Morocco won their first match 2-0 against Comoros at the weekend.
Chipolopolo will remain in the city to face their second fixture against their next opponents on Friday, while Mali travel to Rabat for a crucial encounter against the host nation.
