Congo’s Under-20 national team have suffered their second straight defeat at the Toulon Tournament, officially known as the Maurice Revello Tournament, after falling 2-0 to Denmark in their second group-stage match.
Just days after a 2-0 loss to Japan, the Congolese side were once again unable to find the back of the net, conceding goals in either half as Denmark secured a comfortable victory. Mads Enggård opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 27th minute, giving the Danes a first-half lead that they would never relinquish.
The result was sealed in stoppage time when Chido Obi added a second in the 95th minute, dashing any hopes of a late Congo comeback.
The win propels Denmark to second place in the group standings with six points from two matches. The Scandinavian side now prepare for a top-of-the-table clash against Japan, who also remain unbeaten in the competition.
Congo, meanwhile, find themselves in a difficult position. With no points and no goals scored from their opening two fixtures, the team faces an uphill battle to salvage their campaign.
Their final group match will be against Mexico, set to take place in Aubagne on Tuesday, where they will hope to avoid a third consecutive defeat.
Congo’s performance once again highlighted their struggles in both attack and defence. Despite showing brief flashes of promise, they were largely second best for much of the contest against a disciplined and technically efficient Danish side.
The Congolese midfield often found itself outmatched in possession, and the forward line was unable to create clear-cut chances.
Denmark, by contrast, looked composed throughout, with Enggård orchestrating play in the centre of the park. His calm finish from the spot was the reward for a dominant opening half in which the Danes controlled tempo and territory.
While Congo attempted to push forward after the break in search of an equaliser, they left themselves exposed at the back, something Denmark exploited in the dying moments when Obi latched onto a late chance to double their lead.
As the tournament progresses, questions will be raised about Congo’s tactical approach and ability to respond under pressure.
Two consecutive 2-0 defeats reflect a lack of clinical edge up front and vulnerability in defence, issues that need addressing swiftly if they are to end their campaign on a positive note.
With just one match remaining in the group stage, Congo now shift their focus to facing Mexico. The upcoming fixture offers a final opportunity for the squad to restore some pride and gain valuable experience on the international stage.
Meanwhile, Denmark’s solid start puts them in a strong position to progress to the next phase of the tournament, with their encounter against Japan likely to determine the group winner.
The Maurice Revello Tournament continues to serve as a vital platform for emerging talent, and while Congo’s journey has been challenging thus far, the exposure and lessons gained could prove pivotal in the development of their young squad.
