Zambia's Daka Grabs Late Goal to Earn Zambia Against Mali in Afcon.
The Leicester City forward halted a extended goal dry spell for Zambia with his late header in Morocco.
Zambia's star striker proved to be the match-saver for Chipolopolo as his injury-time header clinched a thrilling 1-1 draw against Mali at the 2025 continental finals in Morocco.
Mali Takes First-Half Initiative
Lassine Sinayoko had put Mali ahead just after the hour mark in the Group A fixture at the Stade Mohammed V, drilling home from point-blank range after his first effort from a corner kick had been parried.
The Eagles dictated the play and had an golden chance to go in front in the final moments of the opening period after Nene Dorgeles was tripped in the penalty area by Zambian defender Matthews Banda.
The designated penalty taker stepped up for the Eagles but his powerful strike was expertly kept out by Chipolopolo goalkeeper Willard Mwanza.
Daka's Heroic Intervention
Daka later secured a draw for the 2012 Afcon winners, who were for the most part outmuscled by the aerial strength of their opponents until the defender's lofted cross was pounced upon by the forward.
Tournament Outlook
The result leaves both sides a couple of points behind host nation Morocco in the group standings after Morocco won their first match 2-0 against Comoros on Sunday.
Zambia will stay in the city to play their second fixture against Comoros on the coming Friday, while The Eagles travel to Rabat for a crucial showdown against Morocco.
