Dr Congo and Zambia played out an entertaining 1-1 draw in their opening Group F match at Laurent Poku Stadium on Wednesday night.

The two neighbors came face to face in a highly anticipated clash from both sets of fans.

DR Congo were dominant in the entire 90 minutes with Zambia resigned to sitting back to defend.

However, Zambia took the lead in the 23rd minute against the run of play with Patson Daka setting up Kings Kangwa from a quick throw in.

Kangwa hit the ball first time to catch Mpasi off his line and put Zambia ahead.

The DRC hit back immediately with Yoane Wissa leveling matters from close range.

Congo continued to dominate the game even in the second half.

The Leopards thought they got a break when a penalty was awarded but VAR cancelled the on-field decision. No penalty.

The DRC had Zambia on the back foot most of the game but the two teams eventually settled for a point each.