Tanzania 0-0 DR Congo: The Leopards progress to second round after stalemate

The Democratic Republic of Congo has successfully qualified for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) last 16 stage after a scoreless draw against Tanzania, who have been eliminated from the tournament and are yet to secure their first-ever win in nine matches.

In the opening two group games of the AFCON, both teams had yet to experience victory, resulting in a cautious start to the match.

Gael Kakuta attempted an early free-kick for D.R. Congo, but it was easily saved by Aishi Manula. On the other end, Lionel Mpasi Nzau made a comfortable save to deny Feisal Salum's shot.

Tanzania started to assert themselves and create opportunities, with Ally Samatta shooting wide after a promising build-up play.

Yoane Wissa from Brentford tried to bring some Premier League flair to the game with a skillful run through the Tanzania defense, but Manula denied him easily.

Manula had to stay alert to stop Fiston Mayele's shot after he received a well-placed through ball.

The biggest excitement in the stadium came from events happening in another match, as Hakim Ziyech scored for Morocco against Zambia, giving D.R. Congo some breathing space in second place.

The cautious nature of the game favored the Taifa Stars, but Hemed Suleiman's team had yet to register a shot on target in the second half.

Simon Msuva had a promising opportunity inside the D.R. Congo box, but his shot posed no threat to Mpasi Nzau.

Wissa came close to scoring the winning goal with a fantastic looping shot, but Manula made an excellent save to tip it over the bar.

A draw was enough for Sebastien Desabre's team to secure their progress to the next stage, having achieved three draws in the group stage.

Egypt will be facing DR Congo in the last 16 stage of the tournament. Based on tonight's match, it seems highly unlikely that DR Congo will have any chance of winning the trophy on February 11th.

On the other hand, Tanzania's pursuit of a victory at AFCON is ongoing, although they finished at the bottom of Group F.