CAN 2023: the Leopards of the DRC qualified for Ivory Coast
In a thrilling match, the Leopards of the Democratic Republic of Congo validated their ticket for the next edition of the African Cup of Nations. After an interminable wait and 50 minutes of confusion, the Congolese team won against Sudan with a score of 2-0. A victory which confirms the rebirth of this selection.
Coach Sébastien Desabre had a surprise by aligning Charles Pickel as a defensive midfielder, relegating Edo to the bench. From the start of the game, the Leopards put constant pressure on their opponents, recovering numerous balls in the Sudanese half. On a superb through ball from Charles Pickel, Théo Bongonda opened the scoring in the 7th minute, despite protests from the Sudanese defense who called for offside.
The central hinge Mbemba-Batubinsika showed great serenity, leaving very few opportunities to the opponent. Goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi was thus little used. The Leopards then managed the end of the match with ease. Fiston Kalala Mayele, who entered the game, scored the second goal in the 87th minute, taking advantage of a confusion in the opposing defense. This victory allowed the DRC to validate its qualification for the CAN, thus joining Mauritania which also won its match against Gabon.
This qualification was experienced as a relief for the more than 54,000 spectators present in the stadium. The Leopards managed to qualify from a difficult group and now have serious ambitions for the upcoming tournament.
The editorial staff of the blog is happy to congratulate the Congolese team for this great performance and wish them good luck for the rest of the competition. Follow us so you don’t miss any sports news and upcoming CAN 2023 events.