CHAN 2024: DR Congo Coach Uses Unique Celebration after Victory over Angola
- DR Congo coach Otis N'Goma delivered an intriguing celebration routine after his team defeated Angola
- The Leopards beat Angola 2-0 to boost their hopes of progressing to the last eight before their final group game against Morocco
- Harambee Stars advanced to the quarter-final after DR Congo's impressive win at Kasarani Stadium
DR Congo coach Otis N'Goma showcased a memorable celebration after his team’s victory over Angola, keeping their CHAN 2024 hopes alive at Kasarani Stadium.
Source: Getty Images
The Leopards needed to win the game to have a chance of reaching the quarter-final. They will battle Morocco on Sunday, August 17, in a win-or-go-home encounter.
Moreover, DR Congo's win over Angola helped Harambee Stars book their quarter-final spot.
How did DR Congo beat Angola?
On Thursday, August 14, at Kasarani Stadium, Angola failed to capitalise on their first-half dominance.
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Otis N'Goma's side stifled their opponents with a solid defensive performance, highlighted by a man-of-the-match display from the goalkeeper.
Congo's Brudel Efonge made some stunning saves to deny the Palancas Negras, who were relentless in the first half. In the second half, Pedro Gonçalves' influence on the contest dwindled, while DR Congo's grew.
Striker Jephte Kitambala rose highest to head in Agee Basiala's free-kick from the left-hand side, giving the two-time winners the lead.
In the 70th minute, Basiala's corner was turned in by Kaluo Mokonzo, sealing the win for Congo. Angola's comeback attempt fell short as they were eliminated from the tournament with one win, one draw, and two defeats.
What did DR Congo boss do after beating Angola?
After referee Mahmoud Mosa blew the full-time whistle, DR Congo boss Oti's N'Goma started crawling onto the pitch to celebrate the win.
He crawled for a few seconds before getting back to his feet. Before the game, CAF reported that N'Goma was sidelined due to illness, but it seems he was fine before kick-off.
His celebration seemed to mimic the stealthy crawl of a leopard or big cat before it pounces on its prey. They have a big game on Sunday, and it remains to be seen if he will do it again.
The Congolese are renowned for their flamboyant celebration routines, with former goalkeeper Robert Kidiaba gaining fame for his iconic 'bum bounce' celebration.
What next for DR Congo?
The Leopards will begin preparations for their final Group A game against Morocco on Sunday. N'Goma's side sits third with six points, the same as the Atlas Lions.
Anything other than three points could see them exit the competition. One of the two will reach the quarter-final.
Source: Getty Images
Benni McCarthy responds to DR Congo coach
In a related story, we reported that Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy responded to Otis N'Goma's spying accusations.
The South African said his team do their homework and doesn't need to spy on the opponent.
Kenya took down DR Congo in their first game thanks to Austin Odhiambo's well-taken goal.
Proofreading by Asher Omondi, copy editor at TUKO.co.ke.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
