Zambia’s 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) journey began on a sour note as they were outplayed by DR Congo, falling to a 2-0 defeat in their opening Group A encounter at the Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi on Thursday, August 7, 2025.

The victory came as a much-needed boost for the Congolese side, who had lost their first game against Kenya. With this result, DR Congo grabbed their first three points of the tournament, breathing life into their campaign and throwing Group A wide open.

 The match began with DR Congo asserting early control. In the fifth minute, midfielder Dieudonné Ntibaleka tried his luck from long range, but his effort sailed over the bar and didn’t trouble Zambian goalkeeper Willard Mwanza. DR Congo’s early intent was clear as they pushed forward with confidence, driven by energetic performances from Kazadi Kabangu and Lappy Kalonji Bungele.

Zambia, on the other hand, struggled to get into the rhythm. For much of the first half, they were pinned back and forced to defend deep. The Congolese midfield dictated the tempo, keeping possession and patiently working the ball into attacking zones. Around the 25-minute mark, a crisp passing sequence opened space for Mukoko Tshibangu Kalunji, who struck a volley just wide of the target.

The clearest opportunity of the first half came in the 28th minute when DR Congo nearly took the lead from a set-piece. Papy Kabanda Mukanya’s curling free-kick struck the post, and Kayembe Kalonji reacted quickest to tap in the rebound. However, celebrations were short-lived as the assistant referee flagged for offside.

Zambia offered little going forward. Their best hope came through quick counterattacks, led by the efforts of Albert Kangwa and Rally Bwalya. Yet, the Congolese defence, anchored by the solid pairing of Jeremie Mukokolo and Pitchou Kalonji, remained disciplined and alert to any danger.

Zambia outclassed

The first half ended on a concerning note for Zambia when winger John Chishimba limped off following a clash with Mukanda Kabwe.

He was replaced by Kelvin Mwenya just before the break. Despite dominating the ball, DR Congo couldn’t find the net in the opening 45 minutes, and the sides went into the halftime break deadlocked at 0-0.

Zambia started the second half with more purpose, trying to turn the tide. However, it didn’t take long for DR Congo to strike. In the 51st minute, 19-year-old rising star Ibrahim Batobo found himself in space just outside the box and unleashed a thunderous shot that flew into the top corner, leaving Mwanza helpless.

The goal not only broke the deadlock but also rewarded DR Congo for their persistent pressure.

Looking to respond, Zambia made several substitutions, bringing on Tembo Owen and Charles Zulu to inject fresh energy. But DR Congo remained in firm control. Their midfield controlled possession, and the backline held firm against Zambia’s increasingly desperate attacks.

The second blow came in the 71st minute. Thabang Monare, spotting a gap in Zambia’s defence, slid a perfectly weighted pass through to Vandala. The striker kept his composure and slotted the ball past Mwanza, scoring his first major goal and doubling DR Congo’s lead.

With the clock ticking down, Zambia pushed more men forward in search of a comeback. Despite their efforts, they lacked creativity in the final third. DR Congo’s defence stayed organised, clearing every cross and closing down every shot.

As the final whistle blew, DR Congo celebrated a well-earned victory, while Zambia were left to reflect on a frustrating performance. With two more group matches ahead, the race for the knockout stages in Group A is far from over, but Zambia will need a quick turnaround to stay in the hunt.