CAN 2025 - Zambia: Patson Daka's celebration nearly cost him dearly

22.12.25 FT AFCON - Africa Cup of Nations

Mali

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Zambia

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Author of Zambia's equalizing goal against Mali this Monday, Patson Daka almost ended his CAN 2025 campaign with a completely botched celebration.

Despite being favorites on paper, Mali could do no better than a 1-1 draw against Zambia this Monday in Casablanca, for their opening match of CAN 2025. The reason: Patson Daka. The Malians were caught off guard in stoppage time by the Chipolopolos, as a counterattack ended with a decisive header from Patson Daka (90+2').

Overcome with joy, the Leicester striker tried to pull off a somersault to celebrate his goal, but completely failed and nearly injured his neck in the process. Fortunately for him and Zambia, Patson Daka got up seemingly unscathed. It was nothing short of a miracle!

This result leaves Morocco alone at the top of Group A thanks to their Sunday victory over Comoros (2-0) in the tournament opener.

Joshua SOSSOU

Editorfr, en, ar

As a sports fan, and particularly a football fan, I've been putting my writing talent to good use for a number of years now to promote African talent and the continent's football in general. On Foot Africa, enjoy reading each of my lines.

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AFCON - Africa Cup of Nations