The Democratic Republic of Congo took a decisive step toward the CHAN PAMOJA 2024 quarterfinals with a commanding 2-0 win over Angola at Nairobi’s Moi International Sports Centre. Second-half goals from Jephté Kitambala and Jonathan Mokonzi kept the Leopards A’ well in contention in Group A.

Earlier in the day, Morocco defeated Zambia 3-1, setting up Sunday’s clash between DR Congo and Morocco as an almost decisive battle for a semifinal spot. Angola, meanwhile, was eliminated without scoring a single goal in the tournament.

Tight first half with no goals

The match began with both sides under pressure: Angola needed a win to stay alive, while DR Congo knew a victory would bring them closer to the next round.

The first 45 minutes saw chances for both teams. Beni Jetour and Kaporal tested Congolese goalkeeper Brudel Efonge from distance, while Kitambala forced Neblú into a sharp save. Angola threatened from set pieces but ran into a well-organized defense.

Daouda Lupembe’s men also had their opportunities through Ibrahim Matobo and Oscar Kabwit, but the score remained level at halftime.

Decisive blow in the second half

The breakthrough came in the 58th minute when a precise free kick from Âgée Basiala found Kitambala, who headed home into the corner.

Angola responded with attacking substitutions, bringing on Jó Paciência, Mafuta, and Gogoró, and came close to equalizing with a header from Vidinho that Efonge saved brilliantly. Their hopes faded quickly, though, as another pinpoint delivery from Basiala—this time from a corner—was headed in by Mokonzi in the 70th minute to make it 2-0.

The Angolans pushed hard in the closing stages, but a lack of finishing and solid defending from Osée Ndombele and Lolendo Mansanga secured the win for DR Congo.

A decisive clash with Morocco

With Basiala starring by providing two key assists and the Leopards A’ showing clinical finishing, DR Congo will head into the showdown with Morocco full of confidence. The winner on Sunday will all but secure a place in the semifinals, promising a tense and high-stakes conclusion to the group stage.