Congo DR cruise past Botswana with dominant 3–0 win

Congo DR delivered a commanding performance to beat Botswana 3–0 in their international fixture, sealing the contest with two first-half goals and a composed second-half finish.

The visitors took control early and broke the deadlock in the 31st minute when Nathanaël Mbuku finished calmly from close range after a well-weighted assist from Gaël Kakuta.

Pressure continued to mount on the Zebras, and Congo DR doubled their advantage in the 41st minute.

Kakuta stepped up to convert a penalty after Thabo Leinanyane was adjudged to have handled the ball in the box following a VAR review.

Botswana struggled to respond, with several attempts from range failing to trouble the Congo DR defence, while goalkeeper Goitseone Phoko was kept busy to prevent further damage before the break.

Congo DR put the result beyond doubt in the 60th minute when Kakuta scored his second of the night, firing home from close range to make it 3–0.

The visitors thought they had added a fourth through Fiston Mayele, but the goal was ruled out by VAR for handball.

Despite a late push from Botswana, including chances for Tumisang Orebonye and Thabo Leinanyane, the hosts were unable to find a breakthrough as Congo DR comfortably saw out the match.

The result underlined Congo DR’s dominance, while Botswana were left to reflect on missed opportunities and defensive lapses.

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