Sunday, January 28
•Equatorial Guinea 0-1 Guinea
•Egypt (8)1-1(9) DR Congo
In a thrilling encounter at Stade Laurent Pokou, D.R Congo secured a nail-biting victory over Egypt, eliminating the seven-time champions from the 2023 AFCON tourney in Ivory Coast.
Meschack Elia’s 37th-minute header gave D.R Congo the lead, but Egypt responded with Mostafa Mohamed converting a penalty to level the score.
Despite Egypt’s second-half dominance, they couldn’t breach D.R Congo’s resilient defense, leading the game into extra time.
Egypt’s challenges intensified as Hamdi Mohamed received his second yellow card, reducing them to 10 men.
Even with the numerical disadvantage, Egypt pressed on, forcing the game into a penalty shootout.
The shootout unfolded in dramatic fashion, with both teams displaying nerves of steel.
Ultimately, D.R Congo emerged victorious, winning 8-7 on penalties. Mostafa Mohamed and goalkeeper Gabaski missed crucial kicks for Egypt, while Arthur Masuaku had earlier missed for D.R Congo.
This historic triumph propels D.R Congo into the quarter-finals, setting up a clash against Guinea.
Meanwhile, Egypt faces disappointment for the second time in three attempts to progress from the Round of 16. Sebastien Desabre’s men now look forward to the challenge that lies ahead in the pursuit of continental glory.
