Cape Verde and Congo DR played out a 0-0 draw in Thursday’s Africa Cup of Nations Group B clash in Ebebiyin, ensuring that both sides are still in the running to reach the second round of the competition.
The Blue Sharks threatened first as Ryan Mendes played a ball through for Carlos Tavares, whose first-time shot whistled narrowly over the bar from an angle.
In the seventh minute, a defensive gaffe nearly cost Cape Verde as Fernando Varela sent a header back towards his goalkeeper, who was out of position.
However, Josimar Dias was able to get back in time and prevent the ball from trickling over the line.
Two minutes later, Elvis Macedo came close with a stunning free kick from 35 yards that curled just over the bar.
Rui Aguas’s charges continued to dominate proceedings and went close again through Carlos Lima and Julio Tavares, but Congo DR were able to hold on until half time.
In the 52nd minute, the Leopards fashioned their first chance of the match, as Cedrick Mabwati beat Ianique Tavares before blasting a powerful shot that curled just over the bar.
In the final few minutes of the game, Congo DR goalkeeper, Robert Kidiaba, pulled off three superb saves in quick succession to stop Cape Verde from snatching a late winner.
The result means that both sides are tied on two points from two games.