CAN 2023: at the end of the suspense, the Leopards of the DRC validate their ticket for the Ivory Coast
In a meeting rich in emotions and twists and turns, the national team of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the Leopards, qualified for the next edition of the African Cup of Nations. After an unbearable 50-minute wait, the Congolese team managed to win with a 2-0 victory against Sudan.
From the start of the match, the Leopards showed their determination by increasing their incursions into the Sudanese camp. It was thanks to a magnificent pass from Charles Pickel that Théo Bongonda opened the scoring in the 7th minute, sparking some protests from the Sudanese defense who called for offside. The Mbemba-Batubinsika defensive pair showed remarkable serenity, leaving little work for goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi.
With this comfortable lead, the team led by Sébastien Desabre managed the end of the game with ease. Fiston Kalala Mayele, who entered the game, scored the second goal in the 87th minute, thus sealing the qualification of the Leopards. This important victory allows the DRC to join Mauritania, which also validated its ticket for the CAN by winning its match against Gabon.
This qualification marks a rebirth for the Congolese team, which shows great promise for the competition to come. The more than 54,000 spectators present in the stadium will be able to keep memorable memories of this evening full of emotions.
Through this victory, the Leopards of the DRC demonstrate their ability to compete with the best African teams. They will now have the opportunity to proudly represent their country at the next African Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.
Stay tuned to follow the progress of the Congolese team and discover the next challenges that await them in this long-awaited competition!