Patson Daka halted a lengthy goal dry spell for Zambia with his dramatic header in Casablanca.
Patson Daka proved to be the hero for his nation as his injury-time header earned a dramatic 1-1 tie against Mali at the Afcon 2025 in Casablanca.
The Malian attacker had put Mali ahead just after the 60-minute mark in the tournament's opening group encounter at the iconic Casablanca stadium, firing in from point-blank range after his first effort from a corner kick had been blocked.
The Eagles dictated the play and had an opportunity to take the lead 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 low effort was brilliantly parried by Zambia goalkeeper Willard Mwanza.
Daka later rescued a draw for the 2012 Afcon winners, who were for the most part outmuscled by the aerial strength of their opponents until Banda's lofted cross was powered home by the striker.
This draw leaves each team a couple of points behind host nation the Atlas Lions in the Group A table after Morocco claimed victory in their first match 2-0 against Comoros on Sunday.
Zambia will remain in the city to play their next game against their next opponents on Friday, while The Eagles travel to Rabat for a crunch match against Morocco.
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Debra Briggs
Debra Briggs
Debra Briggs
Debra Briggs