DR Congo faces must-win challenge against Zambia after Kenya defeat

Two-time champions DR Congo faces a tough task against Zambia on matchday two, needing a win to revive their campaign after an opening defeat. The Leopards suffered a narrow 1-0 loss to co-hosts Kenya at Kasarani Stadium on Sunday. A victory against Zambia is now crucial for them to boost their chances of reaching the knockout stages.

Leopards’ coach Otis Ngoma lamented his team’s missed opportunities against Kenya and demanded significant improvement for the Zambia match.

“We wasted too many chances in the first game against Kenya, and we need to bounce back. We’re not here to make excuses,” Ngoma stated. “Improvement is needed, especially in finishing. That was our biggest letdown. We created numerous opportunities but failed to convert them.”

Facing Ngoma in the dugout will be Zambia’s Avram Grant. The Chipolopolo coach aims to use this competition as a foundation for building a competitive squad. The former Chelsea manager expressed confidence ahead of their first match. “Preparations have gone really well, and we’re looking forward to the first game,”

Grant said after his team’s final training session in Nairobi. “This is a great opportunity for every player to prove themselves on the big stage. Tactically, we are not overly focused on our opponents. Our attention is on maintaining our shape and maximizing our strengths. Our target is to build that winning mentality.”

In the day’s other fixture, Kenya will host Angola at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.