Almost a tragedy at the Africa Cup! He wanted to celebrate the goal in extra time and risked breaking his spine
Article by Maria Olteanu – Published Tuesday, December 23, 2025, 10:42 / Updated Tuesday, December 23, 2025 10:43
Patson Daka (27) earned a valuable point for Zambia with an extra-time goal at the Africa Cup of Nations in their 1-1 draw with Mali in the 90th+2nd minute in a crucial Group A match. But it was his celebration that could have turned into a real tragedy as his attempted dunk resulted in a clumsy fall. But he had a chance, because everything could end extremely badly.
In their Africa Cup of Nations opener, Mali looked to be in control and headed for victory after Lassine Sinayoko's 61st-minute goal, but Zambia struck in extra time. In the 92nd minute, Patson Daka equalized at 1-1, securing a point for his team, but it could all end tragically for the player.
VIDEO. Patson Daka fell on his head after his tumba failed
That moment Patson Daka went for a backflip after scoring and injured his neck đ
â CentreGoals. (@centregoals) December 22, 2025
However, the most talked about moment was the scorer's celebration. Excited, Daka attempted a tumble but things didn't go as planned.
Slipping, he lost his balance and fell face down on the turf, twisting his neck, providing one of the most bizarre moments of the competition, according to sportal.gr.
But he had a chance and escaped safely, although he risked a serious injury, endangering his neck and spine.
Teammates initially ran towards him to celebrate the goal that brought a point on his competitive debut, but then panicked, realizing that Daka was at risk of serious injury.
