Dramatic Draw: Zambia's Patson Daka Secures Point Against Mali
Patson Daka emerged as the hero for Zambia, scoring a last-minute header to secure a thrilling 1-1 draw against Mali in their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) match held in Casablanca.
Mali took the lead shortly after the hour mark during the Group A clash at Stade Mohammed V, with Lassine Sinayoko striking from close range after his initial attempt from a corner was blocked.
The Malians dominated much of the game and nearly extended their lead late in the first half when Nene Dorgeles was fouled in the penalty area by Zambia's Matthews Banda.
El Bilal Toure took the penalty for Mali, but his low shot was expertly saved by Zambia's goalkeeper, Willard Mwanza.
Daka later salvaged a point for the 2012 Afcon champions, who had struggled against the physicality of the Malians until he capitalized on a well-placed cross from Banda.
This result leaves both teams two points behind the host nation, Morocco, who won their opening match 2-0 against Comoros on Sunday.
Zambia will stay in Casablanca for their next match against Comoros on Friday, while Mali will head to Rabat for a pivotal encounter against Morocco.