The Democratic Republic of Congo has maintained their perfect start to the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations PAMOJA 2027 qualifying campaign. They secured a 2-1 victory over Zimbabwe in Harare on Monday, September 28. This win gives The Leopards six points from two matches, placing them at the top of Group E. The match was marked by impressive performances from DR Congo's players, setting a strong tone for their campaign.
DR Congo took control of the match with two first-half goals. Yoane Wissa opened the scoring in the 30th minute after Zimbabwe goalkeeper Elvis Chipezeze failed to collect a cross. Wissa quickly reacted to the loose ball, turning it into the net to put the visitors ahead. This goal showcased Wissa's impressive scoring form for the national team. His contribution was pivotal in securing the win for DR Congo.
Wissa then turned provider as DR Congo doubled their advantage. He released Samuel Moutoussamy, who finished to score his first international goal. Moutoussamy's goal was a significant milestone for the midfielder, who made his DR Congo debut in 2019 and has since accumulated more than 60 international appearances. This achievement highlights Moutoussamy's growth and dedication to the team.
Zimbabwe refused to surrender and eventually found a way back into the match in stoppage time. Marshall Munetsi reduced the deficit by converting at the back post from a corner, scoring his third goal of the qualifying campaign. Although this late goal gave Zimbabwe hope of a dramatic equaliser, DR Congo held on to secure their second consecutive victory.
The result leaves DR Congo with six points at the summit of Group E. Zimbabwe and Equatorial Guinea have three points each, while Sierra Leone remain without a point after two matches. This current standings reflect the competitive nature of the qualifying race. Teams are closely matched, making every upcoming match crucial for qualification.
Meanwhile, Equatorial Guinea kept their qualification hopes alive with a narrow 1-0 victory over Sierra Leone in Yaoundé. Spanish-born forward Loren Zúñiga scored the decisive goal inside the opening minute, giving Equatorial Guinea an early advantage. This win moves them onto three points and keeps them within touching distance of Group E leaders DR Congo.
The victories for DR Congo and Equatorial Guinea have intensified the competition in Group E. As the race for places at next year's finals in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania continues, teams will need to maintain their form and secure crucial points. The upcoming matches are expected to be highly competitive, with each team striving to qualify for the prestigious tournament.
Key points
- DR Congo tops Group E with six points from two matches.
- Equatorial Guinea secured a 1-0 victory over Sierra Leone.
- The qualifying race for AFCON 2027 is heating up, with teams closely matched in Group E.
