Zambia's Daka Nets Injury-Time Goal to Earn Zambia Against Mali at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Zambia's star striker proved to be the savior for his nation as his dying-moments header secured a thrilling 1-1 tie against Mali at the Afcon 2025 in Morocco.

Mali Takes First-Half Initiative

The Malian attacker had put Mali ahead just after the 60-minute mark in the tournament's opening group encounter at the Stade Mohammed V, lashing home from close range after his initial attempt from a corner kick had been blocked.

The Eagles controlled the tempo and were awarded an golden chance to go in front in the closing stages of the first half after a Malian forward was brought down 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 Response

The Leicester City man eventually rescued a draw for the 2012 Afcon winners, who were largely outmuscled by the physical dominance of the Malians until the defender's pinpoint pass was met by the forward.

Group A Outlook

This draw leaves each team two points behind tournament hosts Morocco in the Group A table after the Atlas Lions won their first match 2-0 against Comoros at the weekend.

Chipolopolo will stay in Casablanca to play their second fixture against Comoros on Friday, while Mali journey to the capital for a pivotal match against Morocco.