By: Nana Kwame Bediako
The Leopards of DR Congo and the Chipopolos of Zambia climaxed the first round of games in the AFCON 2023 with a 1-1 draw at the Stade de San Pédro on Wednesday, January 17, 2023.
DR Congo and Zambia played an end-to-end game in the early minutes of the first half, but the Leopard edged the Chipopolos on chances created and most shots attempted. The match saw good physicality from both teams flying all over.
Zambia, going toe to toe with DR Congo, eventually found the back of the net in the 23rd minute when Kings Kangwa capitalised on a mistake from DR Congo goalkeeper Mpasi-Nzau to make it one nil in favour of the Chipopolos.
The Leopards of DR Congo responded shortly after going down with a brilliant team play that saw Cedric Bakambu lay off a beautiful pass to Brentford man Yoane Wissa to tap home the equaliser in the 27th minute.
DR Congo in the second half saw much of the possession, creating big chances as they upset the Zambian defence with their constant pressure in the goal area. The Chipopolos managed to hold their grip as they forced out a draw.
The draw between the two sides gives Morocco a comfortable lead on top of Group F.
