CHAN: Set piece dominance pushes DR Congo past Angola

The Leopards of DR Congo remain firmly in the chase for a place in the quarterfinals at the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) following Thursday evening’s 2-0 Group A victory over Angola at the Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi, Kenya.

Both goals came in the second half from set pieces as the Leopards boosted their chances of advancing while eliminating Angola, a team considered to be a threat to win the competition hosted in East African nations Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.

The first half was an even affair with Angola controlling possession while the Congolese posed danger from direct attacks that utilized their pace and physical superiority. After a strong start, the Angolans faded and the heroics of goalkeeper Neblú kept the game scoreless when he made a couple of big saves close to halftime.

But close to the hour mark, it all unraveled for the Palancas Negras who needed a victory to keep their quarterfinal hopes alive. A 58th minute free kick was whipped in from the left wing by Basiala Amongo and towering AS Maniema Union striker Jephte Kitambala arrived at the near post to head past Neblú.

Angola’s elimination was confirmed twelve minutes later when another high quality service from Basiala’s corner kick found Katumbwe Mokonzi. Horrendous marking from the Angolans left Mokonzi wide open to head in as Neblú came out in vain to challenge far too late, leaving his goal exposed.

Sunday will see the Congolese face Morocco with both teams tied in second place on six points. However, it must be noted that Morocco will advance if the teams draw since the Atlas Lions have scored more goals (5) with both teams level on goal difference (+3). Co-hosts Kenya’s place in the quarterfinals was also confirmed by the results on Thursday.

Group A Table

1. Kenya- 7 points (3 games played)
2. Morocco- 6 points (3 games)
3. DR Congo- 6 points (3 games)
4. Angola- 4 points (4 games)
5. Zambia- 0 points (3 games)

Note: Morocco are ahead of DR Congo because Morocco have scored more goals (5) than DR Congo (4) while both teams have the same goal difference (+3).