In a thrilling Africa Cup of Nations last-16 clash at San Pedro on Sunday, DR Congo emerged victorious against seven-time champions Egypt in a nerve-wracking penalty shootout, securing an 8-7 win after a tense 1-1 draw in regular time.
The high-stakes encounter saw Egypt goalkeeper Mohamed Abou Gabal missing his penalty, hitting the crossbar, while DR Congo’s Lionel Mpasi sealed the win with his confident strike. The epic victory propels DR Congo into the quarter-finals, where they are set to face Guinea in Abidjan on Friday.
Meschack Elia gave DR Congo the lead with a close-range header, but Egypt responded with Mostafa Mohamed’s penalty just before halftime. The absence of injured talisman Mohamed Salah and Egypt midfielder Mohamed Hamdy’s red card in extra time added to the challenges for the Pharaohs.
Despite Egypt’s efforts and the historic significance of the encounter, DR Congo’s Yoane Wissa, Dylan Batubinsika, and Mpasi played pivotal roles, securing their place in the next round. The shootout unfolded with tension, with both teams missing early on, but it was Mpasi’s 18th penalty that ultimately ended Egypt’s AFCON journey.
With the shock exit, Egypt, led by coach Rui Vitoria, concluded the tournament winless, reminiscent of their fate in the 2021 final. The Leopards’ victory adds to the underdog success stories in this year’s AFCON, setting the stage for an exciting quarter-final clash against Guinea at Abidjan’s Alassane Ouattara Stadium.
The Congolese have always been resilient in whatever they do.
What keeps the Congolese team going is their persistence and fighting spirit which is lacking in Chipolopolo boys.
ZAMBIA under hh can never win anything or succeed in anything. Tell me one thing hh has succeeded in since 2021
Looking after you and the rest of your likes (PF LOSERS). At least, you must say thank you to HH
Just accept Hichilema to rule you and your problem will be over Kaizar Zulu.
Egypt and these so called big countries in football their time is up Issa Hayetou used to favor them no more now
We are supposed to take over but we are watching from the sidelines
Zambia ni kumbwiko chabe. We thought our name was enough to get to the finals. You need to show character, manje chabe character nayo ya dwala cholera.