Silas’s Second-Half Strike Earns DR Congo Valuable Point Against Morocco in AFCON Clash

A well-executed second-half goal by Silas secured a deserved point for DR Congo against Morocco in Group F of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. Morocco initially took the lead with Achraf Hakimi’s volley from Hakim Ziyech’s corner. Despite Cedric Bakambu missing a penalty for DR Congo before halftime, the Leopards equalized when Silas calmly finished a cutback from Meschack Elia.

Morocco, with a superior goal difference from their previous win against Tanzania, is likely to advance to the round of 16 with just a point needed in their final group-stage match against Zambia. DR Congo, having drawn with Zambia earlier, aims for a victory in their decisive match against Tanzania to secure a spot in the round of 16.

In the late stages, both teams had opportunities to win, and Morocco’s goalkeeper Yassine Bounou made a crucial save to deny Fiston Mayele’s powerful shot. Tensions escalated post-match with scuffles between players from both sides.

Despite Morocco’s status as World Cup semi-finalists and title favorites, DR Congo extended their unbeaten run in AFCON finals to four games. The Leopards have only been defeated once by Morocco in five AFCON encounters, with their last win dating back to 1976.