The Leopards of DR Congo have marched into the Africa Cup of Nations Round of 16 following a dominant 3-0 victory over Botswana on Tuesday, 30 December.
A masterclass from Gaël Kakuta ensured the Congolese finished their Group D campaign on a high at the Al Barid Stadium, securing second place and a spot in the knockout stages of the tournament.
From the first whistle, DR Congo looked the more assertive side, dictating the tempo with slick passing and high pressing.
Their persistence paid off in the 31st minute when Nathanael Mbuku finished off a flowing team move to give the victors a well-earned lead.
The momentum stayed firmly with the Leopards, and just ten minutes later, they doubled their advantage.
After being awarded a penalty, Kakuta, who had already provided the assist for the opener, stepped up and calmly dispatched his spot-kick, putting the result beyond much doubt before the interval.
DR Congo refused to settle for a two-goal cushion after the break. On the hour mark, Kakuta found himself in a pocket of space once more, showing clinical composure to slot home a low effort for his second of the night and his team’s third.
The Congolese thought they had added a fourth just three minutes later when Fiston Mayele rose highest to head home a cross. However, following a VAR review, the referee disallowed the goal for a handball in the build-up.
While Botswana fought to find a consolation goal in the closing stages, the Congolese defence remained resolute.
The 3-0 result sees DR Congo finish their group stage campaign with seven points, qualifying for the knockout rounds alongside group winners Senegal, who also earned seven points.
Benin joins them in the Round of 16 as one of the best third-placed teams with four points, while Botswana exits the competition.
As the tournament in Morocco moves into the high-stakes knockout phase, the Leopards have sent a clear message to their rivals with a performance defined by efficiency and flair.
