DR Congo beat Ethiopia 3-0 in Group B of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) football match played at Butare's Huye Stadium in southern Rwanda.
DR Congo's first goal on Sunday came through a header by Guy Lisadisu, emanating from a cross by Hertier Luvumbu minutes into the first half, giving coach Florent Ibenge a great start, reports Xinhua.
The Congolese pressed on with several attempts at goal but Lisadisu spoiled his opportunities.
He missed free kick from 20 yards, kicking the ball inches wide of right post when Ethiopia defender Seyoum Tesfaye fouled Congo's Jonathan Mpangi few meters from the penalty box.
More foot-balling by Congo was seen in the second half when Heritier Luvumbu scored the second goal in the 46th minute.
His compatriot Meshack Elia then scored the third goal in the 58th minute.
The Congolese who won the 2009 tournament dominated the game in the second half in front of 10,000 spectators.
Both teams will play again on Thursday when DR Congo will meet Angola while Ethiopia will meet Cameroon.