Leicester City striker Patson Daka came to Zambia’s rescue with a stoppage-time header as the Chipolopolo battled to a 1-1 draw against Mali in their opening Group A fixture of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on Monday.
Despite enduring a difficult club season, with just one goal for Leicester City in the English Championship, Daka showed his predatory instincts when it mattered most. He flung himself at a delivery from Mathews Banda in the second minute of added time, directing the ball home to snatch a dramatic equaliser.
The late goal secured a valuable point for Zambia, who had been second-best for large spells of the match. Mali controlled possession and fashioned the better chances but were made to rue their wastefulness, especially after missing a penalty late in the first half.
El Bilal Touré failed to capitalise from the spot after Banda was adjudged to have fouled Nene Dorgeles in the area following a VAR review. Zambia goalkeeper Willard Mwanza guessed right to deny Touré and keep his side in contention.
Mali eventually broke the deadlock just after the hour mark through Auxerre forward Lassine Sinayoko. The attacker reacted fastest inside the box, firing in on the rebound after Zambia failed to deal with a corner, giving the Eagles a seemingly deserved lead.
However, with victory in sight for Mali, Daka struck in dramatic fashion. The 25-year-old powered a header past the Malian goalkeeper from Banda’s inviting cross, stunning the Malian fans and igniting celebrations among the Zambian players.
The result will please tournament hosts Morocco, who had earlier defeated Comoros 2-0 in Group A’s opening game on Sunday. Morocco are set to face Mali in Rabat on Friday, while Zambia will square off against Comoros as they look to end a lengthy AFCON winless run.
Zambia have now gone 10 Africa Cup of Nations matches without a victory since lifting the trophy in 2012, highlighting the importance of Daka’s late heroics in keeping their hopes alive.
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