Tight opposition during the match between the DRC and Morocco for the second day of the qualifying group in the round of 16 of CAN 2021. The final score ended in a 1-1 draw, thus giving the DRC a chance to qualify for the next phase. Despite a missed penalty by Cédric Bakambu and the early opening score by Achraf Hakimi for Morocco, the DRC was able to react thanks to a goal from Silas Katompa in the second half.
From the first minutes of the match, the DRC showed signs of weakness by conceding a goal from a corner. Achraf Hakimi took the opportunity to open the scoring without any opposition from the Congolese defense. Despite this Moroccan advance, the DRC managed to create a few chances, notably thanks to a free kick from Gaël Kakuta which almost turned into an own goal for Romain Saïss.
The turning point of the match came in the 36th minute, when Congolese goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi suffered a head injury following a foul by Amallah. The referee awarded a penalty to the DRC, but Cédric Bakambu unfortunately missed his attempt by hitting the outside of the right post. Despite this disappointment, the DRC remained focused and made several changes in the second half to turn the situation around.
The changes made by coach Sébastien Desabre have borne fruit. By pressing more and playing high in the opposing camp, the DRC finally managed to equalize thanks to Silas Katompa, who perfectly exploited an assist from Meschack Elia. This goal allowed the DRC to obtain a precious point and keep all chances of qualifying in the next match against Tanzania.
Despite some moments of fear at the end of the match, the Congolese players held on and managed to snatch this draw. This performance suggests good prospects for the DRC in the competition, with the possibility of qualifying for the round of 16.
In conclusion, the match between the DRC and Morocco was intense and close, with twists and turns and opportunities on both sides. The DRC showed its determination by coming back and obtaining this precious draw. Now, all eyes are on the next match against Tanzania, where the DRC will have to confirm their position and aim for qualification in the round of 16 of CAN 2021.