Daka’s injury-time header earns Zambia dramatic draw against Mali

Patson Daka struck deep into injury time to earn Zambia a dramatic 1-1 draw against Mali in their opening Group A match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) in Casablanca.

Mali had taken the lead shortly after the hour mark when Lassine Sinayoko finished from close range at the Stade Mohammed V, reacting quickest after his initial effort from a corner kick was blocked.

In a match reported by the BBC Sports, the Eagles largely dictated the tempo and nearly went into halftime ahead after Nene Dorgeles was fouled in the penalty area by Matthews Banda.

However, El Bilal Touré failed to convert from the spot, with Zambia goalkeeper Willard Mwanza producing a superb low save.

Mali continued to assert their physical dominance for much of the second half and looked set for victory before Zambia found a late breakthrough.

Banda redeemed himself in the dying moments, delivering a lofted cross that was met by Leicester City forward Daka, whose header rescued a point for the 2012 Afcon champions.

The draw leaves both Zambia and Mali on one point, two behind Group A leaders Morocco, who opened their campaign with a 2-0 win over Comoros on Sunday.

Zambia will remain in Casablanca to face Comoros on Friday, while Mali travel to Rabat for a crucial encounter against hosts Morocco.

WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.