The 2023 African Paralympic Games have started with a bang for the Democratic Republic of Congo women’s basketball team. During their first match against the Moroccan team, the Leopards Ladies scored a resounding victory with a score of 40-25. The match took place at the Eden Hights Sports Complex, in Accra, capital of Ghana.
From the first quarter, the Congolese imposed their game and took a considerable lead with a score of 12-4. They maintained this dynamic throughout the match, literally bending the game at halftime with a score of 25-8. Even the awakening of the Moroccans in the second period did not succeed in destabilizing Guy Kasenga’s girls, who showed resilience and audacity.
This victory is a breath of fresh air for the Democratic Republic of Congo, after the men’s team’s disappointing performances in their first two matches. The Leopards Ladies are now looking forward to their next match against the Zambian team on Thursday September 7th.
Unfortunately, on the men’s side, things didn’t go as well. After their defeat in the first match against Algeria, the DRC men’s team once again suffered a crushing defeat against Morocco with a score of 22-100. This defeat is a blow, but the men will have the opportunity to save the honor in their next match against the host team, Ghana.
The 2023 African Paralympic Games are an opportunity to highlight the sporting talents of athletes with disabilities. The performances of the Congolese teams, both women’s and men’s, are an example of courage and determination. Hoping that these Games are a step towards greater inclusion and recognition of Paralympic athletes in Africa.