DR Congo set up Ghana final

The Leopards of DR Congo set-up a final clash with Ghana’s Black Stars at the ongoing African Natiuons Championship (CHAN) courtesy a 2-1 victory over Zambia’s Chipolopolo in their semi-final clash on Wednesay at the Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium, Abidjan.

First half strikes from Lofo Bongeli and Kaluyituka Dioko was all the Congolese needed to confirm their place in Sunday’s final of the competition designed exclusively for local based players.

The Congolese stamped their authority on the game from the start with regular possession.

On four minutes, midfielder Lofo struck the opener with a long range shot from his favorite left foot that caught Zambia goalie Kaumbwa Davy of guard.

As the Zambians warmed themselves into the game, Kaluyituka made matters worse for the Southern Africans with the second goal 12 minutes on.

Lofo turned provider as Kaluyituka finished off with a grounder that beat Kaumbwa again.

The Leopards were a delight to watch as they attached and defended gallantly in their quest to thwart the Zambians effort at goal.

The Chipolopolos dangerman Given Singuluma was given no breather by the Congolese defenders and this affected his team’s attempts at reducing the deficit.

And to add salt to injury, Jonas Sakuwaha goofed with their brightest opportunity in the 43rd minute by shooting feebly into the waiting hands of Congolese goalie Kadiaba Muteba.

The Zambians resumed strongly but the Congolese rear of Mihayo Kazembe, Mabele Bawaka, Gladys Bokese and Joel Kimuaki remained resolute.

Five minutes from time, Singuluma headed home from Kennedy Mudenda’s freekick, but it came very late.

The last five minutes belonged to the Zambians as they consistently pinned the Congolese to their half, but the equalizer remained elusive.

Meanwhile, Zambia will face Senegal in the third place play-off on Saturday at the Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium.