CAN U20: DR Congo holds Ghana to a draw in tournament opener

DR Congo and Ghana played out a 1-1 draw on Friday at New Suez Stadium in Ismailia, kicking off Group C action at the 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations. The Congolese side struck first, only to see their lead quickly erased in a high-octane, evenly balanced contest.

Despite Ghana controlling the early stages and carving out the first big chance in the 11th minute, it was DR Congo who struck first in the 16th. Off a cleverly taken short corner, Messy Mubundu Manitu whipped in a pinpoint cross for Samuel Ntanda. The Amiens striker powered home an unstoppable header at the far post (1-0).

The Black Satellites answered swiftly: Musibau Aziz, perfectly positioned at the near post, redirected a cross from the left to level the score in the 24th minute.

Chances then flowed at both ends. Tony Talasi squandered a golden opportunity to restore DRC's lead, while a Ghanaian forward was denied at the last moment in the 32nd minute.

An open group after matchday one

Despite a flurry of clear chances in the second half, neither side could find a decisive breakthrough.

This 1-1 draw means both teams are level on points with Senegal and Central African Republic, who also shared the spoils earlier in the day.

The rest of the tournament promises plenty of suspense: DR Congo will take on Central African Republic, while Ghana faces Senegal in the next round of group matches.

Here is the Group B table for the U20 Africa Cup of Nations:

1. DR Congo: 1 pt
2. Senegal: 1 pt
3. Ghana: 1 pt
4. Central African Republic: 1 pt

Watch the match highlights:

Amine Jomni |

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African football writer and sports journalist covering football news, stories and insights while sharing his expertise with fans across the continent.