UPDATE: The stage is set for an electrifying showdown as Congo DR takes on Botswana today, December 26, 2023, at Al Barid Stadium, in a decisive match for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) group finale. With Congo DR already securing their place in the knockout stages, they aim to cement their status as serious contenders with a strong performance against a struggling Botswana team.
Congo DR enters this match with a robust record of four points from two games, having achieved a victory over Benin and a draw against reigning champions Senegal. The team, led by coach Sebastien Desabre, is looking to finish at the top of their group for the first time since 2017. In stark contrast, Botswana faces elimination after suffering two consecutive defeats, leaving them with a mere 0 points in the group standings.
The match kicks off at 19:00 local time, and both teams have contrasting goals. While Congo DR seeks to build momentum heading into the knockout phase, Botswana will be fighting for pride as they aim to avoid a third straight loss. With their last victory dating back to March, when they defeated Somalia 2-0 in a World Cup qualifier, Botswana desperately needs a morale-boosting win.
Congo DR’s star forward, Cedric Bakambu, is poised to make history. After scoring in the last match against Senegal, he now has 21 goals for his national team and is just one goal shy of tying the legendary Dieumerci Mbokani’s record of 22 goals. Bakambu’s performance today could be pivotal in leading Congo DR to a dominant victory.
Botswana, on the other hand, has struggled defensively, with five of their last seven matches seeing them concede first. Coach Morena Ramoreboli is under pressure to implement changes that could shift their fortune, particularly in the attacking department. The Zebras will rely heavily on their defensive duo of Mosha Gaolaolwe and Thatayaone Ditlhokwe to hold off the attacking threats from Congo DR.
As the teams prepare for kickoff, anticipation builds. Will Congo DR continue their unbeaten run and secure a top spot in Group D? Or can Botswana pull off a stunning upset to regain their pride? Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this match unfolds.
Stay tuned for live updates and analysis as this high-stakes encounter kicks off at 19:00. The outcome of this match will not only determine each team’s fate in the tournament but could also shift the dynamics of the knockout rounds ahead.
