DR Congo eliminated Angola from the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) with a decisive 2-0 victory. The electrifying clash, held at the famous Moi International Sports Centre Kesarani in Nairobi, showcased the talents and determination of both teams; however, it was the side that effectively converted their chances into goals.
First Half Action
The match kicked off with immediate intensity as Angola sought to establish dominance early on. Beni Jetour’s determination earned a free kick in the first minute, setting the tone for the Angolan side’s offensive efforts. They came close on several occasions, with a standout moment being a powerful header from Kinito, expertly saved by DR Congo’s goalkeeper, Brudel Efonge.
As the first half progressed, both teams displayed a flurry of activity, trading missed opportunities and thwarted shots. Notably, DR Congo’s Ibrahim Matobo had a near miss with a left-footed attempt that sailed wide. Despite the pressure from Angola, the first half concluded without any goals, leaving fans on the edge of their seats.
Second Half Turning Point
The second half marked a shift in momentum as DR Congo began to seize control of the game. In the 58th minute, Jephté Kitambala broke the deadlock, scoring a beautifully placed header from close range after a precise cross from Âgée Basiala. This goal electrified the DR Congo supporters and shifted the tide in their favor.
Only 12 minutes later, the Congolese side struck again, doubling their lead with another header—this time from Jonathan Mokonzi. This powerful goal effectively sealed Angola’s fate, leaving them with a challenging uphill battle.
Despite some late-game heroics from Angola, including headers from Vidinho and Jó Paciência, they were unable to break through DR Congo’s solid defense. The Angolan side made several substitutions in a desperate bid to turn the match around, but the Congolese defenders held firm, securing a clean sheet.
Looking Ahead
With this victory, DR Congo and Morocco are now tied, each with six points heading into their final match scheduled for Sunday, February 14th. The upcoming showdown promises to be a thrilling encounter as both teams vie for a place in the knockout stage.
Meanwhile, Angola finds itself in a precarious position, remaining in fourth place with four points after completing all its matches. Unfortunately, they have been eliminated from the tournament, a tough reality that underscores the competitive nature of the CHAN 2024 event.
As the tournament progresses, fans eagerly await the next matches, hoping for even more unforgettable moments on the pitch.
