Two-time champions DR Congo moved within touching distance of the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024 quarter-finals with a 2-0 win over Angola at Moi International Sports Centre on Thursday night.
Second-half headers from Jephté Kitambala and substitute Jonathan Mokonzi secured the victory, leaving the Leopards A’ in strong contention to progress from Group A.
Earlier, Morocco beat Zambia 3-1, setting up a winner-takes-all meeting between DR Congo and Morocco on Sunday. Angola’s tournament ended without a goal scored.
Angola pressed early but were denied by goalkeeper Brudel Efonge and DR Congo’s tight defending. Kitambala tested Neblú before the break, while Ibrahim Matobo and Oscar Kabwit also went close.
The deadlock was broken in the 58th minute when Âgée Basiala’s free-kick was met by Kitambala’s glancing header. Twelve minutes later, Basiala delivered from a corner for Mokonzi to double the lead.
Angola pushed forward but wasted their chances, with Vidinho, Jó Paciência and Kinito all failing to convert. DR Congo’s backline, led by Osée Ndombele and Lolendo Mansanga, saw out the win.
Basiala’s set-piece precision proved decisive, directly creating both goals and ensuring DR Congo head into Sunday’s clash with Morocco knowing victory will all but guarantee a semi-final spot.
