DR Congo secured a draw against Morocco in Group F at the Africa Cup of Nations, thanks to Silas Katompa Mvumpa’s goal, ensuring they earned a valuable point.

Silas Katompa Mvumpa made a significant impact off the bench to secure a well-deserved point for DR Congo in a thrilling 1-1 draw against tournament favorites Morocco in Group F of the Africa Cup of Nations.

Under scorching conditions in San-Pedro, it was Morocco, the 2022 World Cup semi-finalists, who took the lead early on. Achraf Hakimi rose above the defense to head home from a corner delivered by Hakim Ziyech in the sixth minute, giving the Atlas Lions a 1-0 advantage.

However, DR Congo had an opportunity to level the score when they were awarded a penalty after VAR determined that Selim Amallah had committed a handball offense. Unfortunately for the underdogs, Cedric Bakambu struck the post, wasting the chance to equalize.

Nevertheless, DR Congo continued to fight and their perseverance paid off in the 76th minute. Silas expertly finished a cross from fellow substitute Meschack Elia, bringing the score to 1-1. It was a goal that showcased their determination and skill in a fiercely contested match filled with robust challenges.

With this draw, Morocco now sits at the top of Group F with four points, following their convincing 3-0 victory over Tanzania in their tournament opener. DR Congo, on the other hand, has accumulated two points after their 1-1 draw with Zambia.

Morocco will have the opportunity to secure the top spot in the group by defeating Zambia on Wednesday, while DR Congo remains in contention for a spot in the last 16 as they prepare to face Tanzania.

In the match highlights, Morocco wasted no time in taking the lead as Achraf Hakimi capitalized on a delayed corner kick from Hakim Ziyech in the 6th minute, giving the 2022 World Cup semi-finalists a dream start and a 1-0 advantage.

VAR then intervened in the 36th minute, awarding a penalty to DR Congo after Selim Amallah was deemed to have handled the ball. Amallah also received a booking after the VAR review. However, DR Congo failed to capitalize on the opportunity as Cedric Bakambu’s shot hit the post, leaving the score unchanged.

DR Congo finally found their breakthrough in the 76th minute when Silas Katompa Mvumpa converted a cross from Meschack Elia, leveling the score at 1-1. It was a beautifully executed goal that showcased the team’s attacking prowess.

In the closing stages of the game, DR Congo came close to securing a second goal as they continued to trouble the Moroccan defense on the counterattack. However, the red shirts managed to clear the danger, denying Samuel Moutoussamy a chance to apply the finishing touch.

With the game heading towards an intense conclusion, both teams fought hard to secure the victory, but ultimately had to settle for a well-deserved draw.