CAN 2023: The Leopards qualify for Ivory Coast after confusion
In an endless wait, the Leopards of the Democratic Republic of Congo have finally punched their ticket for the next African Cup of Nations. Despite a wait that lasted 50 minutes, the Congolese team managed to win against Sudan with a score of 2-0. A performance which confirms the rebirth of the Congolese selection.
For this decisive match, coach Sébastien Desabre surprised everyone by aligning Charles Pickel as a defensive midfielder, leaving Edo on the bench. This decision paid off since from the start, the Leopards asphyxiated their opponents by multiplying recoveries in the final Sudanese meters. On a superb deep pass 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 composed of Mbemba and Batubinsika was solid throughout the match, leaving little work for goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi. This comfortable lead allowed the Leopards to manage the end of the game with complete peace of mind. Striker Fiston Kalala Mayele, who entered the game in place of Cédric Bakambu, scored the second goal in the 87th minute, thus putting his team away and validating their qualification for the next African Cup of Nations. .
It’s an expectation that the more than 54,000 supporters present in the stadium will quickly forget, delighted to see their national team qualify for this prestigious competition. This qualification confirms the recent rebirth of the Congolese team, which will undoubtedly be a serious contender for the title during the next CAN in Ivory Coast.
Source: FootRDC