AFCON 2025: Zambian star Daka scores late, lands on neck while celebrating with back flips

Patson Daka gave Zambia a dramatic late lifeline at the Africa Cup of Nations, but his celebrations briefly overshadowed the moment after he landed awkwardly on his neck.

The Leicester City forward scored a 92nd-minute equaliser in Zambia’s Group match against Mali, nodding home a diving header to spark wild celebrations inside the 67,000-capacity Stade Mohamed in Morocco.

As teammates rushed towards him, Daka attempted an acrobatic backflip near the corner flag. However, the move went wrong, and the 27-year-old came down heavily, making an uncomfortable-looking landing on his neck that caused concern among players, officials, and spectators.

Daka was quickly surrounded by teammates and received attention before getting back to his feet. He continued through the closing moments of the match as Zambia held on for a valuable draw in a game filled with drama.

Earlier in the encounter, Mali’s El Bilal Touré had seen a first-half penalty saved by Willard Mwanza, before the Auxerre striker later broke the deadlock in the 61st minute. Zambia kept pushing and were rewarded late on through Daka’s decisive header.

The striker, who joined Leicester City in 2021 following the club’s FA Cup triumph under Brendan Rodgers, has found goals harder to come by at club level. However, he remains a key figure for Zambia, boasting an impressive international scoring record.

Zambia, who also feature former Rangers winger Fashion Sakala, will next face Comoros as they look to build momentum before a challenging group clash against hosts and favourites Morocco.