AFCON 2027 Qualifiers: DR Congo begin campaign with comfortable win over Equatorial Guinea

DR Congo made a confident start to their AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign, defeating Equatorial Guinea 2-0 in their Group E opener on September 24.

Captain Chancel Mbemba set the tone almost immediately, heading DR Congo in front after just four minutes. The early goal gave the hosts control and forced Equatorial Guinea to chase the match from the opening stages.

Equatorial Guinea worked hard to find a response, but DR Congo remained organised and limited their opponents’ opportunities. Goalkeeper Matthieu Epolo also produced an important late save to deny Loren Zuniga and preserve the clean sheet.

DR Congo eventually doubled their advantage in the 72nd minute when Yoane Wissa finished a promising move. The forward’s goal effectively settled the contest and secured three valuable points for Sebastien Desabre’s team.

Mbemba was named player of the match after combining his early goal with a commanding defensive display. Equatorial Guinea pushed forward during the closing stages but could not find a way through.

DR Congo will play Zimbabwe on September 28 in Group E. Equatorial Guinea will face Sierra Leone on the same day.