Zambia's Daka Grabs Injury-Time Equaliser to Earn Zambia Against Mali in Afcon.
Patson Daka ended a lengthy goal barren run for Zambia with his late header in Casablanca.
Patson Daka emerged as the match-saver for Chipolopolo as his stoppage-time header earned a thrilling 1-1 draw against Mali at the 2025 continental finals in Casablanca.
Eagles Seize First-Half Lead
The Malian attacker had broken the deadlock around the 60-minute 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 blocked.
The Eagles controlled the tempo and had an opportunity to go in front in the closing stages of the first half after Nene Dorgeles was fouled in the box by Chipolopolo defender Matthews Banda.
The designated penalty taker took responsibility for the Eagles but his low effort was superbly saved by Zambia shot-stopper Willard Mwanza.
Daka's Late Response
The Leicester City man later secured a point for the former champions, who were largely outmuscled by the physical dominance of the Malians until Banda's pinpoint pass was powered home by the attacker.
Group A Standings
The result means each team a couple of points behind tournament hosts Morocco in the Group A table after the Atlas Lions won their opening game 2-0 against the Coelacanths on Sunday.
Zambia will stay in Casablanca to play their next game against their next opponents on Friday, while The Eagles journey to Rabat for a pivotal match against Morocco.
