Zambia's Daka Grabs Late Leveler to Earn Zambia Against Mali in Afcon.
The Leicester City forward ended a extended goal barren run for Zambia with his dramatic header in Morocco.
Zambia's star striker was the the hero for Chipolopolo as his injury-time header clinched a thrilling 1-1 tie against Mali at the 2025 continental finals in Morocco.
Eagles Seize Early Initiative
Lassine Sinayoko had given his side the lead just after the 60-minute mark in the Group A fixture at the Stade Mohammed V, firing in from point-blank range after his initial attempt from a set-piece had been parried.
Mali dominated possession and were awarded an opportunity to go in front in the closing stages of the opening period after a Malian forward was fouled in the penalty area by Chipolopolo defender Matthews Banda.
The designated penalty taker took responsibility for the Eagles but his powerful strike was expertly kept out by Chipolopolo goalkeeper Willard Mwanza.
The Striker's Heroic Header
Daka eventually rescued a point for the former champions, who were largely dominated by the robust play of the Malians until the defender's lofted cross was powered home by the striker.
Group A Outlook
The result means each team two points behind tournament hosts the Atlas Lions in the group standings after the Atlas Lions won their first match 2-0 against Comoros on Sunday.
Zambia will stay in the city to play their second fixture against their next opponents on the coming Friday, while The Eagles travel to Rabat for a crucial match against the host nation.
