2023 UNIFFAC U20 tournament kicks off with wins for Congo and Gabon
The Central African Football Federations' Union (UNIFFAC) U20 Cup commenced with a riveting start as the Stade Martyrs in Kinshasa hosted the inaugural games, resulting in victories for Congo and Gabon.
In a repeat of last year's UNIFFAC U20 final and the third encounter between the teams in under seven months, Congo faced off against the Central African Republic on Saturday in the late kick-off. Coach Massamba Clement had modestly downplayed his team's title aspirations, considering the tournament a perfect dress rehearsal for the upcoming Francophonie Championship.
However, Thierry Bakala Angandeh's late goals in each half secured Congo a decisive 2-0 win.
Five minutes before the break, Angandeh found the net for the first time, and with a remarkable resemblance, he struck again in the 85th minute, sealing Congo's victory.
The thrilling competition continued as the DR Congo clashed with Gabon in a rescheduled match on Sunday, evoking a constant shift of emotions among the home fans.
The Young Panthers, absent from last year's UNIFFAC due to administrative reasons, grabbed the early lead through Emmanuel Lenny Pascal's goal in the 8th minute.
However, the host team managed to level the score at one-all just after the half-hour mark when Horso Mwaku scored, igniting joyous celebrations among the spectators.
In a stunning five-minute display of dominance, Mwaku added another goal to extend DR Congo's advantage. Nevertheless, Gabon regained composure and equalized through Curtis Makosso in the 38th minute, leading to a 2-2 scoreline at halftime.
As the second half unfolded, Makosso struck again with a goal from his right boot, completing his brace and putting Gabon ahead.
With the score at 3-3, the game hung in the balance, seeking a hero to claim victory. In the dying moments of the match (90+2), substitute Jose Mabele secured a dramatic win for Gabon.
Currently, Congo leads the group, closely followed by Gabon, both securing victories in their opening games. Meanwhile, the Central African Republic and DR Congo find themselves at the bottom of the table. The tournament continues on Tuesday, July 4, at the Stade Martyrs.
In the day's opening fixture at 3:30 PM local time, host DR Congo will face the Central African Republic, while at 6:30 PM, Gabon will test their mettle against Congo.
The UNIFFAC U20 Cup promises to be a captivating showcase of young talent, and football enthusiasts eagerly await further excitement and competitive clashes as the tournament progresses. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting football event.
Note: All times mentioned are local time in Kinshasa.