In the dying moments of the first-round match in Group A of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Zambian striker Patson Daka stole the spotlight by scoring a last-minute equalizer against Mali on Monday evening. The stunning header came in the second minute of added time, following a precise cross from teammate Matthews Banda, earning Zambia, nicknamed the “Copper Bullets,” a crucial point and saving them from an early defeat.
However, Daka’s celebration nearly turned disastrous. The Leicester City forward attempted a backflip to mark his goal but misjudged the move, falling heavily on his head and neck. The incident sparked widespread concern among fans and the coaching and medical staff, fearing a serious injury that could jeopardize his career.
The fears quickly eased as Daka got back on his feet, continued celebrating, and completed the match without any apparent injury. The moment of his fall went viral on social media, drawing massive attention from football enthusiasts.
Reactions to the celebration were mixed. Some criticized it as reckless and dangerous, warning that a fall on the neck could have had severe consequences. Others focused on the unforgettable nature of the goal itself, noting Daka’s decisive header in the 92nd minute despite Mali’s dominance and early lead.
Fans agreed that the goal remains the highlight of the match, but Daka’s controversial celebration stole part of the spotlight, serving as a stark reminder of the risks of acrobatic celebrations and how a single miscalculated moment can dramatically impact a player’s career.
