AFCON 2023: Morocco stall, DR Congo fail to take off
AFCON 2023: Morocco are held by DR Congo. The Atlas Lions will have to wait until the final group game to settle their place in the last 16.
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Neither Morocco nor DR Congo could find a winner in Group F of the AFCON 2023. Against DR Congo, the Atlas Lions had to settle for a draw (1-1). The Moroccans had taken the lead as early as the 6th minute. Hakim Ziyech whipped an outswinging corner towards Achraf Hakimi, who, unmarked at the penalty spot, struck a half-volley into the net. Second best, DR Congo tried their best to get back into the game. The Leopards even thought they had equalised when the referee pointed to the penalty spot after a handball by Selim Amallah in the box (41st). But Cédric Bakambu saw his shot come back off the post. The two sides went into the dressing rooms with the score at 1-0.
Silas equalises for DR Congo
The start of the second half was rather tentative from both sides. Behind on the scoreboard, the Leopards struggled to create danger in the opposition box. But in the 76th minute, as if sparked into life, the Congolese levelled. Found in the centre, Silas calmly beat Bounou. Morocco tried to respond, but it was too late. The two teams parted with the scores level and will play for a place in the last 16 on the final matchday in Group F.