Egypt beat DR Congo and march on to the Round of 16 of the Africa Cup of Nations

2019 Africa Cup of Nations hosts Egypt have sealed a place in the competition's round of 16 after stunning DR Congo 2-0 in their second Group A clash staged at Cairo International Stadium on Wednesday night. 

Two goals from Ahmed Elmohady and Mohamed Salah were enough to see off a resilient and an unlucky DR Congo side that now sit bottom of the group having lost their tournament opener against Uganda. 

Egypt came into the match in high spirits, having won the competition's curtain-raiser against Zimbabwe on Friday, June 21. 

However, the Leopards, who were in search of their first point proved a hard nut to crack, and nearly took an early lead in the 11th minute through Marcel Tisserand whose effort hit the woodwork. The hosts settled in soon after, taking charge of proceedings as they built methodically from the back. 

Elmohamady finally broke the deadlock in the 25th minute, taking a touch with his left foot before poking it home with the outside of his right foot. 

Antwerp striker Jonathan Bolingi nearly restored parity for DR Congo 10 minutes later, but his headed effort from eight yards out hit the crossbar. 

Aware of the opponent's imminent threat, Egypt reiterated through a counter attack, with Salah cutting onto his left foot before rifling a shot past the keeper at his near post to double Egypt's lead moments before the break. 

The second half of the match produced no goal, as the Pharaohs held on to claim a comfortable win over the Leopards. Florent Ibenge's men will battle Zimbabwe in their last group match as Egypt entertain Uganda who sit second.