DR Congo began its road to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations with the calm of a side expecting to lead the way. In an early strike and a late finish, the Leopards beat Equatorial Guinea 2-0, with two former Ligue 1 players deciding their opening Group E fixture.
Mbemba gives DR Congo an early lift
- Captain Chancel Mbemba put DR Congo ahead in the fourth minute. The former Marseille defender attacked Nathanael Mbuku’s free-kick at the near post, taking advantage of hesitant Equatorial Guinea defending to turn it in.
- DR Congo controlled the match against what is expected to be their toughest opponent in Group E and were rarely placed under serious pressure.
- Yoane Wissa, formerly of Lorient, sealed the result in the 72nd minute after being supplied by Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
A strong start in Group E
The 2-0 result gives DR Congo an ideal opening in qualifying for the 2027 AFCON, which will be hosted jointly by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania from 19 June to 18 July.
The Leopards entered the group as clear favourites after reaching the World Cup round of 16 earlier this summer. Equatorial Guinea were seen as the main obstacle in their section, making the controlled nature of the victory especially valuable.
Zimbabwe next before Uganda friendlies
DR Congo will continue their qualifying campaign against Zimbabwe on Monday at 18:00. The Leopards then have two friendly matches scheduled against Uganda, with both games set for 2 and 5 October at 14:00.
