2015 AFCON – Group B Showdown: Zambia vs DR Congo
As the second day of the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations unfolds, all eyes turn to Zambia vs DR Congo, the first fixture from Group B, scheduled for this Sunday. This encounter comes on the heels of Group A’s opening matches on Saturday, where Equatorial Guinea and Congo drew, and Gabon beat Burkina Faso.
🟢 Zambia: Still Ambitious After 2012 Glory
Though no longer boasting the tightly-knit squad that shocked the continent under Hervé Renard in 2012, Zambia arrives in Equatorial Guinea determined to prove their worth. Under the leadership of Honour Janza, the Chipolopolo qualified solidly and still possess weapons capable of doing damage:
Stoppila Sunzu, the defensive rock and 2012 hero
Rainford Kalaba, creative and composed in midfield
Kennedy Mweene, the experienced goalkeeper known for his penalty-saving heroics
Despite a decline in consistency since their 2012 title win, Zambia remains a team capable of upsetting the odds.
🟡 DR Congo: Outsiders With Bite
Led by coach Florent Ibenge, the Leopards are rebuilding but certainly not to be underestimated. Historically a powerhouse (champions in 1968 and 1974), DR Congo sneaked into this year’s tournament as one of the best third-placed teams in the qualifiers. Yet, their potential shouldn’t be dismissed.
Standout players include:
Yannick Bolasie (Crystal Palace), whose pace and dribbling make him a nightmare for defenders
Dieumerci Mbokani, a proven goal scorer
A host of younger talents looking to make a name for themselves
DR Congo has already shown its strength during the qualifiers, notably beating Côte d’Ivoire in Abidjan—a clear warning that the Leopards mean business.
⚔️ A History of Rivalry
Zambia and DR Congo have a rich history of encounters:
1974 AFCON Final: DR Congo (then Zaire) defeated Zambia after a replay
1989 & 1997: Met in World Cup qualifiers
2009 CHAN Qualifier: DR Congo won 2-1
This historical rivalry adds spice to an already crucial match.
📌 What to Expect
Expect a tight, competitive match between two sides hungry to begin their Group B campaign on the front foot. Zambia has more recent success, but DR Congo brings danger from its dynamic attack.
With both teams aiming for a quarterfinal spot in a tricky group also featuring Tunisia and Cape Verde, this clash could set the tone for the rest of their campaigns.
