DR Congo took a one-point victory over Egypt in the World Cup on Saturday, closing out a 77-75 win that felt longer than the score suggests. The visitors needed every point, particularly from distance, where their shooting proved decisive. Egypt had their chances but could not convert when it mattered most.
The match swung on shooting accuracy rather than structure. Egypt landed 30 field goals against 25 for DR Congo, yet the visitors made 11 three-pointers to just two for the hosts. The extra range opened up space that Egypt could not close down consistently.
DR Congo moved the ball better across the floor, recording 20 assists compared with Egypt's 11. The hosts relied more on individual effort, which left them exposed in transition. Turnovers tell part of the story — Egypt committed nine while DR Congo had eleven, but the visitors did not need to punish themselves as harshly.
The rebound battle was even at 43 to 41, though Egypt grabbed more on the offensive end with 22 to DR Congo's 18. That gave them extra possessions they could not turn into points. Egypt also shot a higher percentage from the line, making 13 of 23 free throws, but it was not enough to offset the three-point deficit.
DR Congo's victory extends a pattern from their recent outings. They lost heavily to Mali and Angola on Friday and Wednesday, then beat Rwanda earlier in the tournament. Egypt's form has been similarly patchy — a win over Senegal and Uganda followed by losses to Ivory Coast and Cameroon.
What this result means is that neither side has settled into a rhythm. DR Congo will feel they can compete with anyone if they keep finding the perimeter. Egypt need to work on closing out games when they have the lead. The World Cup is still early, but the margins are already tight.
