Zambia's Daka Grabs Late Leveler to Earn Zambia Versus Mali in Afcon.

Patson Daka emerged as the hero for his nation as his injury-time header clinched a nail-biting 1-1 share of the points against Mali at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Casablanca.

Mali Takes Early Initiative

The Malian attacker had broken the deadlock shortly after the 60-minute mark in the Group A fixture at the Stade Mohammed V, firing in from close range after his initial attempt from a corner kick had been parried.

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 Zambian defender Matthews Banda.

El Bilal Toure stepped up for the Eagles but his well-hit shot was brilliantly parried by Chipolopolo shot-stopper Willard Mwanza.

Daka's Heroic Intervention

Daka later salvaged a draw for the 2012 Afcon winners, who were for the most part outmuscled by the robust play of the Malians until the defender's delivery into the box was powered home by the striker.

Group A Table

This draw leaves each team a couple of points behind tournament hosts Morocco in the Group A table after the Atlas Lions won their first match 2-0 against Comoros on Sunday.

Zambia will remain in Casablanca to play their next game against Comoros on Friday, while The Eagles journey to Rabat for a crunch encounter against the host nation.