DR Congo Begin AFCON 2017 Qualifiers with Win Over Madagascar
Democratic Republic of Congo began their quest for a place at the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations with a 2-1 victory over Madagascar on Sunday in Kinshasa.
Bronze medallists at the last AFCON, the Leopards found it difficult to break down a determined Malagasy side during a tense first half, with both teams going into the break scoreless.
Florent Ibengé’s men finally made the breakthrough in the second half, thanks to substitute Firmin Mubele, who found the net in the 58th minute to give the hosts a deserved lead.
DR Congo doubled their advantage in the 74th minute when Joël Kimwaki rose to head home from a Yannick Bolasie corner, putting the home side in control.
Madagascar managed to pull one back in the 77th minute, but the goal proved only a consolation as DR Congo held firm to secure all three points.
The win puts the Leopards level at the top of Group B alongside Angola, who also registered a win against the Central African Republic in their opening match.
While not the most convincing performance from DR Congo, Ibengé will be satisfied with the result, which keeps his side on track in what could be a competitive group.
