The Leopards A’ of the Democratic Republic of Congo found themselves facing the Sao of Chad in an exciting clash during the qualifiers of the highly anticipated TotalEnergies CHAN 2024. The first leg, which ended in a draw, had its share of twists and turns and intensity for the supporters of both teams.
In the 19th minute, it was Oscar Kabwit who opened the scoring for the Congolese, plunging the spectators into a wave of excitement. However, the determination of the Chadian players was quick to show, with Yannick Djekonbé equalizing only 7 minutes later. The stadium vibrated to the rhythm of the goals scored by both sides, offering a colorful spectacle.
The return from the locker room saw the Leopards A’ take control of the game, multiplying the scoring opportunities without managing to convert. The lack of finishing proved to be an obstacle for the Congolese team, who will have to redouble their efforts in the next home match, at the Stade des Martyrs, to secure their place in the final phase of the competition.
The TotalEnergies CHAN 2024, scheduled for 1-28 February 2025 in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, promises to be a major event for African football. The local Leopards have already had the honour of winning this competition twice, in 2009 and 2016, making them a formidable team on the continental stage.
The rivalry between the DRC and Chad has translated on the pitch into intense performances and memorable confrontations. The two teams have already faced each other three times, with two Congolese victories and one draw. This statistic underlines the importance and commitment that the meetings between these two nations have.
As they await the next decisive clash, the supporters of the Leopards A’ remain confident about their team’s ability to shine and qualify for the prestigious final phase of the CHAN TotalEnergies 2024. It is time for preparation and determination to achieve this objective and carry the colors of the DRC high in this long-awaited competition.