In a nail-biting encounter, the Democratic Republic of Congo secured a spot in the quarterfinals of the AFCON Côte d'Ivoire, triumphing over Egypt in an 8-7 penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw in extra time.
The excitement unfolded at the Laurent Pokou Stadium, where Meschak Elia, making an impact from the right side, initiated the action with a soaring shot. Responding, Egypt's Hamdy Fathy attempted a header that narrowly missed the mark. The Pharaohs took control, with Mostafa Mohamed unable to convert El Nenny's shot (10th minute). The momentum shifted when DR Congo stood firm, launching attacks into the opposing half. Bongonda missed an opportunity, sending his shot over the crossbar (20th minute). DR Congo broke the deadlock as Meschak Elia capitalized on Yoan Wissa's deflected cross from a quick throw-in (36th minute). Egypt swiftly equalized when Hegazi was fouled in the box, leading to a penalty converted by Mostafa Mohamed (45+1). The teams entered halftime tied at 1-1.
In the second half, Bakambu threatened Gabaski's goal, but his attempt from Elia's cross went wide (52nd minute). Ahmed Mostafa Sayed missed a one-on-one chance against Mpasi. The remainder of the second half was relatively calm despite numerous substitutions. With regulation time ending in a 1-1 draw, the match proceeded to extra time.
At the onset of extra time, Mohamed Hamdy Edin received a second yellow card for a foul on Simon Banza (96th minute). In the 105th minute, Masuaku's cross eluded the entire Congolese attack. Despite their numerical advantage, DR Congo couldn't capitalize. The game then progressed to a penalty shootout.
In a tense shootout, DR Congo demonstrated resilience, securing victory with 8 successful penalties to Egypt's 7. The Leopards will now face Guinea in the quarterfinals.
