Democratic Republic of Congo coach rallied to a 1-0 victory over Uganda on Wednesday night in an international friendly played in Douala, Cameroon.
A first-half goal by Spain-based striker Theo Bongonda sent the Leopards past a resilient Uganda Cranes side at the Japoma Stadium to boost their preparations ahead of the crucial AFCON qualification encounter against Gabon.
Leopards gaffer Sebastien Desabre unleashed a new-look starting eleven with a number of his usuals starters taking their seats on the bench.
Bongonda, who plies his trade in the Spanish La Liga for Cadiz CF, found the back of the net from the spot in the 26th minutes.
The goal was the Belgian-born attacker’s first international for the Leopards.
In the second half, Desabre introduced a number of changes with the usual starters including Arthur Masuaku, Yoane Wissa and Gael Kakuta.
Desabre would have been impressed with his charges’ performance against resilient Uganda and former side, however, the Frenchman will have to wait to know about the availability of attacker Chadrack Akolo for the crucial encounter against the Panthers of Gabon.
The Swiss-based St. Gallen was hauled off and replaced by Aldo Kalulu in the 73rd minute in Douala after picking up a knock.
The Leopards looking to revive their hopes of qualifying for the AFCON, face Gabon at the Franceville Stadium in Franceville this Saturday.
