Leopards battle back from early setback to secure place in final four
The Democratic Republic of Congo fought back from an early deficit to defeat Guinea 3-1 in their Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final at the Alassane Ouattara Olympic Stadium on Friday, securing a semi-final spot for the first time since 2015.
Guinea had taken the lead in the 20th minute when DR Congo captain Chancel Mbemba gave away a penalty after a foul on Mohamed Bayo, who converted from the spot. However, the Congolese side quickly responded, with Mbemba making amends just seven minutes later by scoring a brilliant left-footed finish from a tight angle to level the match.
The Leopards then took control in the second half. In the 65th minute, Yoane Wissa calmly converted a penalty after Guinea’s Julian Jeanvier fouled Silas Katompa, putting DR Congo ahead. Arthur Masuaku sealed the victory with a stunning free-kick from near the touchline, which caught the Guinea goalkeeper out of position to make it 3-1 with eight minutes remaining.
Guinea, seeking their first-ever AFCON semi-final appearance, could have taken the lead in the opening moments when Mbemba appeared to handle the ball in the box, but their claims for a penalty were denied. The Congolese then grew into the game, with Mbemba’s equaliser and the subsequent goals ensuring a comprehensive win.
Despite drawing all three group-stage matches and needing penalty shootouts to progress from the last 16, DR Congo showed their resilience with a powerful display. They now await the winner of the match between hosts Ivory Coast and Mali for their semi-final clash in Abidjan on Wednesday.
Earlier in the day, Nigeria had also progressed to the semi-finals with a 1-0 win over Angola, and they will face either the Cape Verde Islands or South Africa in their next match.
