The highly anticipated face-to-face between DR Congo and Zambia during the 2024 African Cup of Nations (CAN) kept all its promises. The Congolese Leopards and the Zambian Chipolopolos offered an intense and balanced match which ended with a parity score, 1-1.
From the first moments of the match, DR Congo took control of the game. The Congolese players, led by Kalulu, Bakambu and Kakuta, put pressure on their Zambian opponents. But despite their mastery, the Leopards were hit by a twist of fate. On the Chipolopolos’ only opportunity, Kangwa took advantage of a risky exit from the Congolese goalkeeper to open the score against the run of play (1-0, 23rd minute).
However, DR Congo was quick to react. Bakambu, in great form, perfectly controlled an impeccable cross to allow Wissa to equalize straight away (1-1, 27th minute). The game then intensified, and the Congolese multiplied the opportunities. A shot from Wissa was saved on the line by the Zambian goalkeeper, Kadulu missed the target, and Daka even saved a ball on his own line.
The second half resumed at the same frenzied pace, with DR Congo determined to take the advantage. Kakuta sent a dangerous cross to Bakambu, but the Zambian defense repelled the danger. The Congolese were close to a penalty, but the VAR overturned the referee’s decision after viewing the images, to the great despair of Bakambu. Despite their domination, the Leopards were powerless against a solid Zambian defense.
In the end, this draw suits Zambia more than DR Congo. The two teams share second place in Group F, and will have to fight to qualify for the round of 16 against Morocco and Tanzania.
This duel between DR Congo and Zambia demonstrated the talent and determination of these two teams. Despite regrets for the Congolese who let victory slip away, this match offered an exciting spectacle to African football fans. The rest of CAN 2024 promises to be exciting, with more great matches to come.