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Morocco's AFCON campaign continued with a hard-fought 1-1 draw against DR Congo in San Pedro on Saturday. The Atlas Lions struck first just six minutes into the game, courtesy of a clinical finish from Paris Saint-Germain right-winger Achraf Hakimi.
DR Congo threatened to equalize before halftime, earning a penalty following a foul on la Liga midfielder Selim Amallah.
Why so serious? ???#MARRDC | #TotalEnergiesAFCON2023 pic.twitter.com/ZfPVduFbb3
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Fortunately for Morocco, Cedric Bakambu's spot-kick sailed over the bar. The DR Congo equalizer did arrive in the second half, with winger Silas Katompa Mvumpa finding the net.
Despite dominating possession (55%) and creating more shots (11), Morocco couldn't secure the win.
Despite draw, Morocco tops Group F
DR Congo proved a determined opponent, putting in 10 shots of their own, including two on target. The game was physical, with the hot weather and high humidity leading to two hydration breaks per half.
Morocco received three yellow cards to DR Congo's one, while both teams committed 17 fouls.
The draw nonetheless keeps Morocco atop Group F with four points, ahead of DR Congo (2 points), Zambia (1 point), and Tanzania (0 points).
Looking ahead, Morocco faces Zambia on January 24 in a crucial match for their title aspirations. Having impressed at the World Cup and boasting runners-up finishes in 2004, the Atlas Lions are one of the tournament favorites and will be hungry to finally lift the AFCON trophy.
