The Democratic Republic of Congo has revived its hopes in the CHAN PAMOJA 2024 tournament with a solid 2-0 win against Zambia in their second match of Group A, played on Thursday at the Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi. Goals from Ibrahim Matobo and substitute Horso Mwaku gave the Leopards their first win of the tournament after falling to Kenya on opening day.

The result also ended a streak of five matches without victory for DR Congo in the African Nations Championship, while also marking Zambia’s first-ever defeat in a CHAN group stage match, ending a historic run of 12 undefeated games.

Clinical second half lifts DR Congo

After a first half filled with fouls and missed opportunities, DR Congo came out with more intensity and control. Just six minutes into the second half, a well-worked team move allowed Jephte Kitambala to assist Matobo, who fired a powerful shot into the top corner to break the deadlock.

Zambia tried to respond, with Killian Kanguluma and Charles Zulu coming close, but goalkeeper Brudel Efonge was brilliant in keeping the clean sheet with key saves.

The second goal came in the 71st minute thanks to substitute Horso Mwaku, who finished a counterattack led by Oscar Kabwit. The goal confirmed DR Congo’s dominance and sealed a much-needed win.

Zambia falls short in attack

Despite arriving with an impressive group stage record in CHAN, Zambia lacked rhythm and precision in the final third. Coach Avram Grant made several substitutions to try to turn the game around, but the team struggled to create danger.

Their best chance came in the 89th minute with a header from Zulu, but Efonge made another vital save to preserve the clean sheet.

DR Congo remains in the fight

The victory not only ends DR Congo’s five-game winless run in CHAN but also keeps their quarter-final hopes alive. After a tough loss to Kenya, the team showed maturity and efficiency to pick up three valuable points.

Coach Otis Ngoma’s men responded well under pressure, with Matobo, Kabwit, Kitambala, and Efonge standing out. Mwaku and Boaz Ngalamulume added fresh legs to close out the match.

Now, Group A is wide open, with Morocco, Kenya, and DR Congo all tied with three points. The final matchday, especially the clash between DR Congo and Morocco, will be decisive.