Zambia's Daka Nets Late Goal for Zambia Versus Mali in Afcon.
The Leicester City forward ended a lengthy goal dry spell for Zambia with his late header in Morocco.
Zambia's star striker emerged as the savior for the Zambian side as his stoppage-time header secured a thrilling 1-1 share of the points against Mali at the Afcon 2025 in Morocco.
Mali Takes Early Control
Lassine Sinayoko had broken the deadlock shortly after the hour mark in the tournament's opening group encounter at the iconic Casablanca stadium, drilling home from point-blank range after his first effort from a corner kick had been blocked.
Mali dictated the play and had an golden chance to go in front in the closing stages of the first half after Nene Dorgeles was tripped in the box by Zambian defender Matthews Banda.
El Bilal Toure took responsibility for Mali but his powerful strike was superbly saved by Chipolopolo goalkeeper Willard Mwanza.
The Striker's Heroic Response
Daka later secured a point for the former champions, who were largely outmuscled by the robust play of the Malians until Banda's delivery into the box was pounced upon by the striker.
Tournament Standings
This draw leaves each team a couple of points behind host nation Morocco in the group standings after Morocco claimed victory in their first match 2-0 against the Coelacanths on Sunday.
Zambia will remain in Casablanca to face their second fixture against Comoros on Friday, while The Eagles travel to the capital for a pivotal showdown against Morocco.
