The Leicester City forward halted a 20-month goal drought for Zambia with his late header in Casablanca.
Zambia's star striker emerged as the savior for the Zambian side as his dying-moments header secured a thrilling 1-1 share of the points against Mali at the 2025 continental finals in Morocco.
Eagles Seize First-Half Lead
The Malian attacker had given his side the lead just after the hour mark in the Group A clash at the iconic Casablanca stadium, lashing home from close range after his initial attempt from a set-piece had been parried.
Mali controlled the tempo and were awarded an golden chance to go in front in the final moments of the first half after a Malian forward was tripped in the box by Zambian defender Matthews Banda.
The designated penalty taker took responsibility for Mali but his powerful strike was brilliantly parried by Zambia shot-stopper Willard Mwanza.
The Striker's Late Header
The Leicester City man eventually rescued a draw for the 2012 Afcon winners, who were for the most part dominated by the physical dominance of their opponents until Banda's pinpoint pass was pounced upon by the forward.
Group A Outlook
The result leaves both sides a couple of points behind host nation Morocco in the Group A table after Morocco claimed victory in their opening game 2-0 against Comoros on Sunday.
Zambia will remain in Casablanca to face their second fixture against Comoros on Friday, while Mali journey to the capital for a crucial match against the host nation.
