DR Congo showcased sheer resilience, orchestrating a stunning comeback to defeat Guinea 3-1 and clinch a spot in the coveted semifinals. Here’s a closer look at the dramatic twists and turns that defined this captivating clash
The early stages saw Guinea take the lead with Mohamed Bayo converting a 20th-minute penalty, controversially awarded by referee Mustapha Ghorbal after Chancel Mbemba’s challenge on Bayo. Despite protests from DR Congo players, Bayo calmly slotted the ball to the right of the goal, securing his third goal at AFCON.
However, Mbemba redeemed himself just before the half-hour mark, capitalizing on Masuaku’s corner to net a left-footed shot into the roof of the net, leveling the score and sparking jubilation from the entire DR Congo bench and traveling supporters.
After a closely contested first half, the Leopards emerged as a different force in the second half, dominating the initial 45 minutes. Despite Wissa’s early free-kick opportunity being blocked, he had a golden chance in the 53rd minute, but his right-footed shot from Masuaku’s delivery went high and wide.
Substitutions at the hour mark proved pivotal, with Guinea making a double change and DR Congo introducing Silas Katomba. Both substitutes made an instant impact, as Conte missed a golden opportunity for Guinea, and shortly after, Katomba drew a penalty for DR Congo.
Brentford forward Yoane Wissa stepped up, executing a stuttered run-up to find the bottom left-hand corner, giving the Leopards a deserved lead in the 62nd minute. The following 20 minutes witnessed DR Congo’s resolute defense protecting their advantage while Guinea sought an equalizer.
In the dying minutes, DR Congo sealed the victory as defender Arthur Masuaku’s free-kick, seemingly intended as a cross, swerved past goalkeeper Ibrahim Kone, putting the cherry on top for the Leopards.
With this triumph, DR Congo secured their place in the last four of the competition, awaiting the winner between Mali and Cote D’Ivoire for a shot at the finals on Wednesday.
