Two-time champions DR Congo took a big step towards the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024 quarter-finals with a 2-0 win over Angola at Moi International Sports Centre, Nairobi, on Thursday night.
Second-half headers from Jephté Kitambala and substitute Jonathan Mokonzi sealed the Group A victory, putting the Leopards A’ in strong contention for a knockout place.
The result came hours after Morocco’s 3-1 win over Zambia, setting up a decisive Sunday clash between DR Congo and Morocco for a semi-final berth. Angola’s campaign ends without a goal scored.
First Half Battle
Angola needed a win to stay alive, while DR Congo knew three points would put them within touching distance of the next round.
The first 45 minutes were tight. Angola’s Beni Jetour and Kaporal tested DR Congo goalkeeper Brudel Efonge from range, while Kitambala forced a save from Neblú at the other end.
Both sides looked dangerous from set-pieces but lacked the killer touch before halftime.
DR Congo Pull Ahead
The breakthrough came in the 58th minute. Âgée Basiala whipped in a precise free-kick and Kitambala’s glancing header found the bottom corner.
Angola pushed back with attacking changes and nearly levelled through Vidinho, but Efonge saved well.
In the 70th minute, Basiala struck again — this time from a corner — delivering for Mokonzi to head home at the near post.
Angola Run Out of Time
Pedro Gonçalves’ men pressed forward in the final minutes but failed to convert chances. Jó Paciência, Lépua, and Kinito were all denied by solid DR Congo defending.
Neblú kept the scoreline respectable with a late stop from Ibrahim Matobo, but DR Congo’s backline, led by Osée Ndombele and Lolendo Mansanga, ensured there was no late comeback.
Basiala the Difference
Both goals came from Basiala’s set-piece precision, highlighting his influence on the match. Kitambala’s movement and Mokonzi’s impact off the bench added depth to coach Daouda Lupembe’s options.
Sunday’s DR Congo vs Morocco fixture will likely decide a semi-final spot, while Kenya face Zambia in the other Group A clash.
