Sebastian Desabre’s Leopards have maintained a perfect record in Group H with a narrow 1-0 victory over Tanzania at Stade des Martyrs on Thursday night, thanks to a second-half own goal by Clement Mzize.
The mishap occurred in the 53rd minute when Mzize inadvertently deflected a Congo cross into his own net, giving the hosts a crucial lead.
This win propels DR Congo to nine points from three matches, firmly establishing them at the top of the group.
Tanzania, meanwhile, remains in second place with four points, while Ethiopia and Guinea, both yet to win a game, sit in third and fourth, respectively, ahead of their upcoming clash on Saturday.
The match was a tense affair, with Tanzania creating chances but failing to convert.
Mbwana Samatta and Feisal Salum tested the DR Congo defense, but the hosts stood strong, while Arthur Masuaku nearly doubled the lead for Congo, hitting the bar from a free-kick late in the second half.
The result leaves Tanzania needing a positive result in their next match to keep their qualification hopes alive.
A win in Tanzania will confirm the DRC spot at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
