SOCCER: DR Congo beat Botswana 3-0 to set up Algeria last-16 showdown

Gael Kakuta starred as the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) defeated Botswana 3-0 in their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Group D match in Rabat on Tuesday, securing a last-16 encounter with Algeria on January 6.

The Congolese finished level on seven points with Senegal at the top of the group standings. However, an inferior goal difference meant DR Congo had to settle for second place, setting up a knockout-round clash against the in-form 2019 champions.

Nathanael Mbuku opened the scoring after a clever backheel pass from Kakuta, before Kakuta added a penalty and later a close-range finish to complete the victory.

Botswana, already eliminated from the tournament, have now lost all six of their AFCON matches, marking their second appearance at the continental finals.

DR Congo took the lead in the 30th minute when Mbuku combined with Kakuta in a quick one-two, with Kakuta returning the ball through a deft backheel before Mbuku slotted it past the goalkeeper at the near post.

The Congolese were awarded a penalty shortly after when Botswana defender Thabo Leinanyane handled Meschack Elia's cross. Kakuta calmly converted the spot-kick.

Kakuta scored his second goal in the 60th minute, controlling Theo Bongonda’s pass and finishing from seven yards with ease.

DR Congo appeared to score again when Fiston Mayele deflected the ball into the net, but a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review ruled the goal out for handball.

With this win, DR Congo advances to face Algeria, while Botswana exits the tournament without a point.

-Reporting by Nick Said; Editing by Christian Radnedge/Reuters