DRC wins CHAN group D opener

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) narrowly edged out Mauritania with a 1-0 triumph, the goal being scored 50 minutes into the match of the first group D match of the Orange African Nations Championships (Chan) at the Peter Mokaba Sports Complex on Tuesday evening.

With the DRC on attack, Mauritania defender, Wade Mohamed made a hash of challenging Ndombe Mubele from the DRC, which led to the referee awarding a penalty against Mauritania.

The penalty was taken by the DRC’s Eddy Omomo. He outwitted Mauritania’s goalkeeper, Brahim Souleymane with direction, which handed the DRC the lead in the match. However, the DRC had to hold onto their one goal led for dear life, with Chan newcomers, Mauritania seriously challenging them to at least finish with a draw.

When the final whistle blew, it was a visibly relieved DRC team that accepted a narrow victory.

In the second group D match, Gabon dominated the game against Burundi, but was unable to find the back of the net, as Burundi’s defence was good enough to hold their rivals to a goalless draw.

The next matches, both in group D, will take place on Saturday with DR Congo playing against Gabon at 17:00 and Burundi playing against Mauritania at 20:00.

Tickets for these matches can be bought at any Computicket at Checkers outlets nationwide.

Fixtures for Peter Mokaba Sports Complex:

• DR Congo vs Gabon – Saturday, 17:00.

• Burundi vs Mauritania – Saturday 20:00.