DR Congo have qualified to the Quarterfinals of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Côte d’Ivoire 2023 after beating 7-time champions Egypt 8-7 on penalties in the round of 16 at the Stade Laurent Pokou on Sunday..

Both teams had not won a game at the tournament as they advanced with 3 draws to the round of 16.

DR Congo deservedly went ahead in the 37th minute with Meschack Elia scoring from a well taken header.

Egypt did nit lie down and went to press for the equalizer. They were awarded a penalty after VAR review. Mostafa Mohamed gladly executed the spot kick to bring Egypt level before the break.

Despite their second half dominance Egypt couldn’t break down the resilient D.R Congo defense.

The match was level after 90 minutes and extra time was needed to decide the winner.

Egypt were reduced to 10-men in the extra-time after Hamdi Mohamed was sent off following his second yellow card of the game.

However, just as in the Group stages none of teams could find a winner so a shootout was needed.

Egypt missed twice from the penalty spot, Mostafa Mohamed and goalkeeper, Gabaski both missed their kicks, Arthur Masuaku had missed his penalty for DR Congo.

DR Congo won the tie 8-7 on penalties and progress to the quarter-finals to meet Guinea with goalkeeper Mpasi scoring the winning penalty.

Kelvin Trudeau Musako

Football Journalist | TotalEnergies AFCON 2021 Photographer | Media Officer - Kabwe Warriors FC | Graphic Designer | Videographer