African champions, South Africa forced the Democratic Republic of Congo women’s national team to a 1-1 in the first leg of the Paris 2024 Olympics Qualifiers.
The Second Round first leg match was under threat due to a strike on the part of the host players (DR Congo).
The players were protesting payment of their allowances from the Women’s African Cup of Nations (WAFCON) Qualifiers.
They threatened to boycott Wednesday’s match against Banyana Banyana but the game finally went ahead.
Surprisingly, it was the striking host that broke the deadlock in the 40th minute as Trabzonspor player, Grace Mfwamba scored the opener in the 40th minute.
Mfwamba also scored for her Turkish side last weekend during their 6-1 loss to Besiktas ahead of the Olympic Qualifiers.
Desiree Ellis’ side responded after the break with the equaliser from Racing Louisville player and former African footballer of the year, Thembi Kgathlana in the 48th minute.
The 2022 WAFCON winners hold on for an away draw ahead of the return leg at home.
The return leg will be held in South Africa on October 30, 2023.
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