Fatshimetrie – Spotlight on the tense match between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Chad for the CHAN 2024 qualifiers
The trip to Côte d’Ivoire for the Leopards A’ of the Democratic Republic of Congo turned out to be fraught with pitfalls. The match against the Sao of Chad at the Alassane Ouattara stadium in Ebimpé showed a tight and tense face for both teams.
From the start of the match, the Congolese tried to take the lead, scoring through Oscar Kabwit in the 19th minute. However, this advantage was short-lived, with a quick equalizer from the Chadians through Saleh Yannick in the 27th minute. The shortcomings in the construction of the Congolese team were highlighted, with a squad deprived of some important players.
Coach Otis Ngoma’s 4-5-1 tactics helped limit Sao’s attacks but also restricted Leopards’ attacking options. On the bench, choices were limited, with only two substitutes available. Compliance issues between players’ passports and licenses also hampered the team.
The next match, to be played at the Stade des Martyrs in Kinshasa, will be crucial for both teams. The away goal rules could work in the Congolese’s favour, but they will have to pull out all the stops to claim victory. A similar performance to the one they put up in 2022 against Sao, with a resounding 5-0 win, would be needed to seal qualification for CHAN 2024.
The Leopards will need to show all their determination and talent to overcome the challenges they faced in this first match. The challenge is going to be tough, but with adequate preparation and a high-level performance, the team can hope for a record and historic seventh participation in this prestigious competition.
In conclusion, the path of the Leopards A’ of the DR Congo in these qualifications for CHAN 2024 is strewn with pitfalls, but the team has the necessary resources to overcome these obstacles and achieve its objectives. The next match will be decisive, and the supporters are eagerly waiting to see the Congolese players shine on the field and secure their ticket to this continental competition.