Football News: DR Congo Stun Guinea, Reach AFCON 2024 Semi-Finals
In a thrilling Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) quarter-final matchup, DR Congo came from behind to secure a 3-1 victory over Guinea on Friday. The Congolese have booked their place in the semi-finals of the prestigious tournament, setting up a clash with either Mali or hosts Ivory Coast, who play on Saturday evening.
The Match Recap
The game started at a frantic pace, with Guinea adamantly appealing for a penalty in the opening minutes. However, a defensive mix-up at the other end presented Yoane Wissa with a golden opportunity, but the Brentford striker dragged his shot wide.
As the first half progressed, Guinea were awarded a penalty after Congo captain Chancel Mbemba was adjudged to have pushed Guinea striker Mohamed Bayo in the box. Bayo kept his cool and confidently dispatched the spot-kick to give Guinea the lead.
“We came out strongly, but a defensive lapse cost us the lead,” Mbemba said after the match.
But DR Congo’s response was swift, as Mbemba redeemed himself just minutes later with a thunderous finish from a corner, leveling the scores at 1-1 going into the break.
The second half was a much slower affair, with constant fouls and substitutions interrupting the flow of the game. However, DR Congo consistently looked the more threatening side and took the lead through a second penalty, this time converted by substitute Silas Mvumpa.
The game was sealed in the final 10 minutes when former West Ham United defender Arthur Masuaku spotted the Guinea goalkeeper off his line and struck a clever free-kick that found the back of the net.
Key Player: Chancel Mbemba (DR Congo)
The Marseille captain had a rollercoaster of a game, initially giving away the penalty that put Guinea in front. However, his response was exemplary, as he scored a stunning equalizer just minutes later and led his team to a famous victory.
This hard-fought win has undoubtedly boosted DR Congo’s confidence as they look to challenge the tournament favorites and potentially end their 48-year wait for an AFCON title.
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