In a highly anticipated clash in Group F, DR Congo is set to face Zambia in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), with both teams seeking a positive start to their campaign.
DR Congo, a two-time AFCON champion, is eager to leave a lasting impression after missing the last edition. However, the weight of history looms large, with their last title dating back to 1974 under a different name. Despite this, the Leopards have a track record of progressing beyond the group stage in their recent AFCON appearances.
Recent form, marked by seven games (W1, D3, L3), suggests a lack of confidence for DR Congo. Nevertheless, their coach Sébastien Desabre orchestrated a remarkable turnaround in the AFCON qualification group, clinching four consecutive wins after two initial defeats.
Zambia, making a return to the AFCON finals after a six-year absence, topped their qualification group ahead of Ivory Coast. Guided by former Chelsea manager Avram Grant, Zambia carries the experience of a coach who led Ghana to the final and a fourth-place finish in 2015 and 2017.
Although expectations might be tempered for Zambia, who haven’t won an AFCON match since their 2012 triumph, they boast the lethal Leicester City striker Patson Daka. DR Congo’s Simon Banza, in sensational form with 17 goal contributions for Braga, adds firepower to the encounter.
As both teams seek redemption and a positive start, the spotlight will be on these key players in a match where history and recent form collide.
