- DR Congo shock seven-time champions Egypt
- Penalty shoot-out drama sees the Leopards go through
- Morocco currently favourites to lift trophy, DR Congo priced at 16/1
DR Congo advance to last eight
In a dramatic turn of events at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, DR Congo pulled off a stunning upset by defeating seven-time champions Egypt in a thrilling shootout to advance to the quarter-finals. The match, which ended 1-1 after extra time, kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final penalty was taken.
DR Congo took the lead for the first time in the tournament when Meschack Elia capitalized on Yoane Wissa’s cross to put his team ahead. However, Egypt quickly responded as Mostafa Mohamed converted a penalty just before halftime following a foul by Dylan Batubinsika on Ahmed Hegazi.
The intensity of the match heightened when Egypt’s Mohamed Hamdy received a second yellow card in extra time, reducing his team to 10 men. Despite several chances for both sides, the deadlock persisted, leading to a nail-biting penalty shootout.
In the shootout, both teams displayed nerves as they missed opportunities. However, it was DR Congo’s goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi who emerged as the hero, not only with his saves but also by scoring the decisive penalty to secure an 8-7 victory.
The defeat was a bitter disappointment for Egypt, especially in the absence of injured captain Mohamed Salah. It marked another instance of heartbreak for the team, reminiscent of their loss in the 2021 final.
DR Congo’s triumph sets up an exciting quarter-final clash against Guinea at Abidjan’s Alassane Ouattara Stadium.
Check out our tournament preview before making your picks!
AFCON betting
At the time of writing, Morocco, who play their last 16 match against South Africa on Tuesday, remain favourites, priced at 5/2 with bet365. DR Congo are rated as a 16/1 chance.
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