DR Congo made a stong intent statement in the ongoing Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) in Cameroon following a 1-0 win again their neighbours Congo on Sunday.
The two-time CHAN champions produced a scintillating performance to top Group B at the Japoma Stadium, Douala.
Both teams headed to the game with the hope of top topping the group after Libya and Niger played a goalless draw in the first group game.
The Leopards under the guidance of bead coach Jean-Florent Ibenge were in control of the game but struggled to create clear cut chances.
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On the other hand, the Red Devils of Congo never gave them opponent the space to breakthrough.
The game lacked chances and the best opportunity after 25 minutes was the outside shot by the Leopards’ striker Mayele.
The pace of the match picked up just before the break when playmaker Bercy Langa outwitted two defenders on 40 minutes but striker Bersyl Ngatsongo was slow to arrive, allowing goalkeeper Ley Matampi to grab the ball.
DR Congo winger Makabi Lilepo tested goalkeeper Ndzila with a well-hit free-kick in the 42nd minute which was brilliantly parried for a corner.
Both teams headed to the locker room still wondering how to break the deadlock.
Two minutes to resumption of the second half, DR Congo got the answer as Chico Ushindi scored the first goal in Group B.
The Red Devils pilled in pressure late in the game in search of the equalizer.
With ten minutes remaining winger Gautrand Ngouenimba dribbled two opponents before crossing for Hardy Binguila whose diving header beat Matampi but narrowly missed the target.
Moments later under-pressure DR Congo defenders failed to clear an aerial ball but Ngatsongo’s well-struck effort inside the box was saved by Matampi to preserve their lead.
The victory takes the Leopards to the top of Group B with three points after Niger and Libya played out to a goalless draw in the earlier game of the group.
DR Congo next Group B game will be against Libya while Congo take on Nigeri on Thursday.