Title: The DRC recovers its points against Mauritania: a new breath for its qualification for CAN 2023
Introduction :
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has just made its decision regarding the match between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Mauritania. The DRC won their case and thus recovers the three points of victory. This decision is a real relief for the Congolese team, which thus sees its chances of qualifying for the African Cup of Nations (CAN) 2023 strengthen. In this article, we will come back to the details of this case and the impact it can have on the course of the DRC in the race for qualification.
The dispute with Mauritania:
The match in question took place last March, and ended in a draw (1-1). However, the Congolese Football Federation (FECOFA) had lodged a reservation with CAF, contesting the qualification of Mauritanian defender Khadim Diaw. According to FECOFA, this player did not respect the procedures necessary to obtain Mauritanian nationality. In addition, the Congolese federation had also contested the red card sent to striker Cédric Bakambu by the match referee.
A decision in favor of the DRC:
After examining the reservation filed by FECOFA, CAF finally agreed with the DRC. The three points of the victory were awarded to the Congolese team, which thus goes from 7 to 9 points in the classification of qualifications for CAN 2023. This decision is a real boost for the DRC, which sees its chances of qualification to strengthen.
The impact on the qualification of the DRC:
The recovery of these three points is of paramount importance for the DRC in its race to qualify for CAN 2023. With this unexpected gain, the Congolese team is positioned more favorably in the qualifying group. It is thus closer to first place, synonymous with a direct ticket to the final phase of the competition. It is also a confidence boost for the Congolese players, who will be motivated to give their best in the next matches.
Conclusion :
CAF’s decision in favor of the DRC revives the hope of qualifying for CAN 2023. The recovery of the three points against Mauritania is a real turning point in the course of the Congolese team. More than ever, the Leopards of the DRC are determined to go all the way and win their ticket for this prestigious continental competition