The Africa Cup of Nations opening round of group games concluded with Zambia and DR Congo playing to a 1-1 draw.
In an unexpected turn of events, Kings Kangwa capitalized on a defensive mix-up, giving Zambia the lead in the 23rd minute. Just four minutes later, the Leopards equalized in the Group F match, courtesy of a close-range goal from Brentford forward Yoane Wissa.
Although DR Congo were initially awarded a penalty for handball in the second half, the decision was overturned after a video review.
In the earlier Group F match, Morocco showcased their status as pre-tournament favorites with a convincing 3-0 victory over Tanzania.
DR Congo made a lively start in this entertaining encounter, dictating the early proceedings. However, it was the 2012 champions who seized the lead in humid conditions in San Pedro.
The opening goal transpired when DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi ventured out of his box to clear the ball into touch, colliding with Leicester forward Patson Daka in the process.
The Leopards contended that he had been fouled, but Daka executed a quick throw-in, and Kangwa capitalized on the goalkeeper being out of position. He struck a right-footed shot from a distance that eluded two defenders and the retreating Mpasi, finding the bottom left-hand corner.
Zambia’s celebrations had scarcely concluded when Wissa sealed the deal from close range after a well-timed run and pass from Cedric Bakambu, formerly Africa’s most expensive player.
DR Congo maintained pressure, forcing Zambia veteran Stoppila Sunzu, an Afcon winner in 2012, to clear a shot off the line from Wissa around the half-hour mark.
In the second half, Wissa broke free to deliver a beautiful pass to Bakambu, who, with only the keeper to beat, shot high over the crossbar.
DR Congo was initially awarded a penalty in the 60th minute after Tandi Mwape was deemed to have handled inside the penalty area. However, Ethiopian referee Bamlak Tessema reversed his decision following a video assistant referee review, determining that the ball had first struck the thigh of the falling Mwape.
Despite their rich history as Afcon champions in 1968 as Congo-Kinshasa and in 1974 as Zaire, the Leopards relentlessly attacked Zambia’s goal for the remainder of the match but were unable to secure a decisive victory.
All four Group F teams will resume action on Sunday, with front-runners Morocco facing DR Congo and Zambia going head-to-head with Tanzania.
The upcoming second round of group games kicks off on Thursday, featuring the eagerly anticipated Group A clash between hosts Ivory Coast and Nigeria, following an earlier match between Equatorial Guinea and Guinea Bissau.
In Group B, Egypt and Ghana will both aim for their first win when they meet in Abidjan at 20:00 GMT.