Morocco 1-1 DR Congo: Silas silences Atlas Lions as Congo grab late equaliser to keep hopes alive

Morocco, considered as one of the top contenders before the tournament, struggled to secure a 1-1 draw against the Democratic Republic of Congo in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). This result prevented them from clinching the top spot in Group F.

If the Leopards were not aware of the threat that Morocco possessed, they received a quick reminder when Youssef En-Nesyri powerfully headed in Achraf Hakimi's cross within two minutes, forcing Lionel Mpasi-Nzau to make an early save.

A delay of four minutes occurred as the officials resolved a communications problem, giving D.R. Congo the opportunity to regroup.

However, Hakim Ziyech's corner resulted in Hakimi being left unmarked, allowing him to score a well-executed volley and break the deadlock.

Despite the intense heat, Morocco displayed a strong attacking performance early on, with the Hakimi-Ziyech combination on the right side proving to be particularly effective.

The former Chelsea winger came close to scoring, cutting inside and unleashing a low shot that was comfortably saved.

The Atlas Lions almost paid the price for their wastefulness when Selim Amallah committed a handball, resulting in a penalty for the Moroccans.

However, there was a delay of nearly 10 minutes due to an injury before the spot-kick was taken. Perhaps affected by the wait, Cedric Bakambu missed from 12 yards, hitting the post.

After the restart, Walid Regragui's team appeared sluggish and were fortunate not to concede when Dylan Batubinsika missed a close-range shot.

Their lackluster performance eventually led to them losing the lead in the final 15 minutes of the game. Meschack Elia's low cross was converted by Silas, putting D.R. Congo ahead.

Morocco found themselves in a precarious situation, but they owed their level score to the exceptional performance of goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, who made a crucial fingertip save to deny Fiston Mayele.

It's possible that the extreme temperatures were affecting their performance, but the Atlas Lions were fortunate to come away with a draw in the end. However, their destiny remains in their own hands as they prepare to face Zambia in their third match.

DR Congo, on the other hand, still have a chance to advance to the knockout stage. With a track record of progressing from the group stage in their last three appearances at the finals, they have every reason to feel confident.

Their impressive performance against the highest-ranked team in Africa only adds to their belief in their abilities.