DR Congo Women’s Football Team Suffers Second Defeat in 2024 Africa Cup of Nations
Morocco Secures 4-2 Victory Over DR Congo in Group A Clash
Rabat, Morocco – The DR Congo women’s national football team, known as the Léopards, faced another setback in their 2024 Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a 2-4 loss against host nation Morocco on Wednesday, July 9, at Rabat’s Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.
The match, part of the tournament’s Group A second round fixtures, saw an early lead for DR Congo when striker Merveille Kanjinga found the net in the 6th minute with a powerful right-footed strike, assisted by midfielder Naomie Kaba Kaba.
Moroccan Comeback Shifts Momentum
Morocco’s captain Ghizlane Chebbak equalized in the 25th minute before putting her team ahead with a second goal just before halftime (43′). The Atlas Lionesses entered the break with a 2-1 advantage.
DR Congo showed resilience after the interval, with Flavinz Mawete leveling the score at 2-2 in the 70th minute. However, Morocco regained control when Chebbak completed her hat-trick five minutes later. Fatima M’Rabet sealed Morocco’s victory with an 83rd-minute penalty, bringing the final score to 4-2.
Tournament Standings and Outlook
With this result, DR Congo remains at the bottom of Group A, having conceded eight goals while scoring only two in their opening two matches. The team’s position becomes increasingly precarious as they prepare for their next fixture.
Current Group A Standings:
- 1. Morocco – 4 points (+2 goal difference)
- 2. Zambia – 4 points (+1)
- 3. Senegal – 3 points (+3)
- 4. DR Congo – 0 points (-6)
The defeat leaves DR Congo facing an uphill battle to qualify for the knockout stages of the tournament. Football analysts suggest the team must significantly improve their defensive organization while maintaining their attacking threat in upcoming matches.
This match report highlights the growing competitiveness of women’s football in Africa, with host nation Morocco demonstrating why they are considered tournament favorites. For DR Congo, the focus now shifts to regrouping and preparing for their crucial next match in the competition.
This article is based on the original reporting by Radio Okapi. Read the full original report here.