The Africa Cup of Nations last-16 clash between Egypt and Congo DR was nothing short of gripping, filled with high emotions and intense moments. The match, which ended in a 1-1 draw, pushed both teams to their limits, ultimately resulting in an epic 8-7 victory for Congo DR in the shootout.
Congo DR took the lead in the game with a goal from Meschack Elia, who expertly headed the ball into the net. Their advantage, however, was short-lived as Egypt’s Mostafa Mohamed equalized with a penalty just before half-time. This goal marked Mohamed’s fourth of the tournament.
Extra Time Drama
As the game progressed into extra time, tensions ran high. Egypt midfielder Mohamed Hamdy received a red card, leaving his team with one player less on the field. Meanwhile, The Pharaohs, playing without their injured talisman Mohamed Salah, shifted their focus to defending and withstanding Congo DR’s attacks. Both teams showed incredible resilience and determination.
With the game finally reaching a deadlock at full time, a penalty shootout determined the winner. Egypt’s goalkeeper, Mohamed Abou Gabal, had the unfortunate task of taking a penalty himself. However, luck was not on his side as he hit the crossbar, allowing Congo DR’s Lionel Mpasi to score against him. Congo DR emerged victorious, sparking jubilant scenes among their players and fans.
A Historic Moment
This victory for Congo DR holds particular significance as the last time they defeated Egypt in a Cup of Nations clash was 50 years ago, during the semifinals. This triumph propelled them to lift the trophy. Making this win even sweeter is the fact that it came against a seven-time winner and football powerhouse like Egypt.
Throughout the tournament, both Egypt and Congo DR struggled with finishing their matches within regular time. Egypt had drawn their previous six matches dating back to the previous tournament in Cameroon, while Congo DR had also experienced a series of drawn games. This inability to find the killer touch posed a challenge for both teams and contributed to the thrilling nature of their encounter.
Key Moments
The match was filled with key moments that shaped its outcome. Congo DR’s opening goal came from Yoane Wissa’s deflected cross, which found its way into the net thanks to Elia’s header. Egypt’s equalizer on the stroke of half-time came through a penalty awarded after a VAR review. This provided Abou Gabal with the opportunity to become the first Egyptian player to score in their first four matches at a Cup of Nations finals. Ultimately, his miss in the shootout dampened this achievement.
As the game progressed, both teams displayed their fighting spirit and tenacity to secure a win. DR Congo’s Cedric Bakambu had a chance to score but missed, while Chancel Mbemba also found himself unable to convert a header. These near misses added to the tension and uncertainty of the match. In the end, the players were pushed beyond their limits, both physically and mentally, as they fought tirelessly until the final whistle.
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